Curfew in Solapur, violence continues

Solapur, Nov 18 (UNI) Dalit groups protesting the September killings of four members of a dalit family indulged in large-scale violence and arson forcing police to extend the curfew till 0800 hrs tomorrow in the town today after repeated pleas by police asking them to maintain peace failed.

Since last night, Dalit groups were on the rampage, torching a bus and pelting stones at several shops and parked vehicles, leading to imposition of curfew from 0800 hrs this morning. However, after the situation continued to be tense this evening, curfew was extended till 0800 hrs tomorrow.

Earlier, the curfew was in force from 0800 hrs to 2000 hrs tonight. A total of 93 people have been arrested in connection with the violence and arson for the last four days in the town. Five policemen and scores of others were injured in the stone-pelting incident, police said.

The killings of four members of a Dalit family in Khairlanji in Bhandara district on September 30, had sparked of riots here and other parts of the state, including Nagpur and Amravati.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) L R Bhosale told UNI tonight that some people are still trying to destabilise the law and order situation and hence the curfew was extended.

Earlier, Bhosale addressed an all-party peace committee meeting, also attended by District Guardian Minister Vijaysinh Mohite-Patil, District Collector and other prominent citizens.

Mr Mohite-Patil, who is camping in Solapur since the last four days, has requested the people to maintain peace.

UNI Team SSS-OBB YA RAI2110