MP Govt committed to maintain communal harmony: Nagendra

Bhopal, Apr 5 (UNI) Expressing concern over recent incidents of communal violence in some parts of Madhya Pradesh, Minister of State for Home Nagendra Singh said the government is committed to maintaining communal harmony and law and order in the state.

Describing as baseless the allegations that the VHP or the Bajrang Dal were behind these incidents, Mr Singh told UNI that the BJP Government would leave no stone unturned to maintain communal harmony.

Pointing out that such allegations were politically motivated, he said such sensitive matters should not be politicised.

The Minister said the recent incidents in Indore or Rajgarh district's Narsinghgarh town had sparked from a small issue but timely action prevented the situation from going out of control.

Pointing out that Madhya Pradesh was considered to be a peaceful state, Mr Singh said people must remain cautious of rumours and other provocative incidents.

He assured that any attempt to disrupt communal harmony would be firmly dealt with and guilty would not be spared.

''Collectors and Superintendents of Police of every district have been directed to take strict measures against those trying to foment communal disturbances,'' Mr Singh said.

Replying to a question, he admitted that there was shortage of police staff. However, recruitment drive would be undertaken soon in order to end the shortage.

Regarding naxalite activities in some districts in Mahakaushal region and in Sidhi district of Vindhya region, Mr Singh said the government was alert and monitoring the situation.

However, he refused to disclose about the preparations citing strategic reasons.

The Minister congratulated police for achieving big success in anti-dacoity operations in the Gwalior Chambal region.

He said though police lost an officer during the operation to eradicate dacoit Jagjiwan Parihar gang, his martyrdom would be remembered always.

Meanwhile, Principal Secretary (Home) Satya Prakash had directed the Collectors and SPs of every district to exercise caution while religious processions were being taken out.

Recent communal violence in Narsinghgarh town and earlier at other places had erupted when some disturbances occurred while a religious procession was being taken out.

UNI