Bahrain protesters roughed up again as royals talk peace

Manama, Mar 14: Rebels protesting against the royal family of Bahrain were in for a tough time on Mar 13 when state police fired tear gas and water cannon at them. Though no casualty has been reported but it still ranks as one of the most violent confrontations since seven protesters were killed in the firings by state forces in Feb 2011.

Bahrain is witnessing severe unrest against its ruling royal family. The protest are one among the several others that have gripped Middle East countries with governments unchanged for the last few decades. Egypt and Tunisia have already seen their respective governments toppled due to such revolts. And the regime changes in these countries have fired several such inspired protests in Libya, Bahrain, Yemen and Algeria.

Bahrain's crown prince has assured the opposition, mainly the shi'ite ones that the dialogue would look into their demands. Sheikh Salman al-Khalifa has promised national dialogue would look at bolstering the power of the parliament and that any deal could be put to nationwide referendum.

The rallies are mainly being held by the Shi'ite population of Bahrain which alleges that the Sunni Royal family discriminates against them.

The US has urged Bahrain to show restraint and engage in dialogue.

OneIndia News