Congress workers stage dharna, Oppn leader held

Bhopal, Jul 6 (UNI) Hundreds of Congress workers, including Madhya Pradesh Opposition Leader Jamuna Devi was today arrested for staging a 'dharna' in front of Chief Minister's residence in protest against communal violence in Indore and not allowing party leaders to visit affected areas.

Congress spokesperson Manak Agrawal was among those arrested. He said police took those staging 'dharna' in vehicles and lodged them in central jail.

Meanwhile, Ms Devi fell unconscious and doctors examined her. She was at present lodged in jail. According to Mr Agrawal, Ms Devi has high blood pressure.

Mr Agrawal said about 200 Congressmen were kept in jails, while hundreds of party workers were taken somewhere. Congress workers staged 'dharna' for over two hours before the residence of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Congressmen alleged that party leaders were barred from entering Indore. Besides, no action was being taken against those involved in communal violence.

Police said agitators were lodged in central jail. Prior to that, they were urged to end the sit-in.

UNI PKJ-PS MIR HT1858