26 arrested in Jalna, Curfew lifted

Jalna, Maharashtra, Apr 11 (UNI) Curfew was lifted in the Kanhayanagar locality of the town today as the situation was limping back to normal after the large-scale violence by dalit activists to protest the desecration of statue of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar.

Police have arrested 26 persons in connection with yesterday's violence and arson. Two of the arrested persons were picked up for their alleged involvement in the desecration of the statue, according to police sources.

The activists went on rampage following the desecration of the statue around 0630 hrs yesterday, prompting the police to resort to lathi-charge and open fire. The police fired 11 rounds in the air to disperse the violent mob, that set fire to several State Transport buses, police vans and other vehicles.

Indefinite curfew had been clamped in the locality at 0800 hrs.

The situation was now peaceful and no untoward incident was reported from the district, the sources added.

UNI