Massive response to VHP's jail bharo in Delhi; passes off peaceful

New Delhi, Aug 21 (UNI) More than 50,000 people courted arrest in the capital today following VHP-sponsored 'jail bharo' call demanding restoration of land to the Sri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) to help facilitate pilgrims during the annual 'Amarnath Yatra'.

VHP activists, backed by the BJP and its affiliates and supporters of various religious and social organisations, courted arrest at six places -- Hauz Khas, Paharganj, Ashok Vihar, Rajouri Garden, Nand Nagri and Bhola Nath Nagar -- and submitted memoranda to the DCP of their respective areas.

A large number of women and youth participated in large numbers in the 'jail bharo' protest which began at 0930 hrs and ended at about 1200 hrs. Various saints and mahants also took part in the 'andolan'.

Shouting nationalist slogans and calling for restoring the 'dignity' of Hindus, the participants sought 'strong steps' against anti-national forces in Kashmir.

However, no traffic disruption or any untoward incident was reported from anywhere and those arrested at most places were 'released' after about an hour.

Delhi Police spokesman Rajan Bhagat said everything went on peacfully and no untoward incident was reported from any part of the city.

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