IG (Western Range) admits demolition decision wrong

Midnapur, Oct 3 (UNI) Mr Kuldeep Singh IG (Western Range) today admitted that the decision of the police to demolish roadside stalls here yesterday was wrong and ordered an inquiry into it.

Mr Singh's statement came after a meeting with District Magistrate N S Nigam, SP Rajesh Singha and Chairman Midnapur Municipality Pranab Basu.

Yesterday's incident led to violence in and around the SP's bungalow, DM's bungalow and Midnapur collectorate in which two police vans were torched. Several policemen were injured in brick batting and government property damaged by the angry mob.

''Whoever is responsible for such unilateral and wrong decision will be seriously dealt with. We are going to enquire into the incident and see how such an incident could flare up on Gandhiji's birth anniversary and Eid. The inquiry report will be made known,'' Mr Singh said.

Altogether 17 persons, who were arrested in this connection, were released on bail.

''Police kept its cool in view of the fact that it was a festival day but I confirm that the hoodlums responsible for yesterday's rampage will be seriously dealt with at the same time,'' the IG added.

UNI XC PL AKJ CS1952