Hema Malini stopped from visiting scene of violence in Mathura

Mathura, Jun 4: BJP MP Hema Malini was today stopped from entering the violence-hit Jawahar Bagh area of Mathura district by police, citing security reasons and the ongoing combing operation.

Police said combing operations are underway in the area due to which entry of civilians is prohibited.

"This is not a big issue and there was no ulterior motive to bar the MP from entering the area. Combing operations are underway and the area is being examined by police teams and experts.

"The place has still not been declared safe. It would be difficult for us to answer if any further causalty takes place," police said.

In town to meet the victims of the violence, the Mathura MP, who had faced flak for uploading pictures of her film shoot as violence erupted in her constituency, met the injured policemen at the hospital.

She also condoled the death of Mukul Dwivedi, Superintendent of Police and Santosh Yadav, Station House officer, Farah.

"I am grieved at the loss of two diligent and arduous police officers, the BJP MP said. She slammed the District Administration for lapses and said there would not have been so much loss if the situation was handled properly.

The Mathura MP had gone to take stock of situation at Jawahar Bagh area where massive clashes claimed 24 lives, including that of an SP and SHO. She was also scheduled to take part in a 'dharna' at the Collectorate, called by BJP National Secretary Shrikant Sharma.

Sharma was sent by Party President Amit Shah to assess the situation yesterday after tension escalated during an anti-encroachment drive on the orders of Allahabad High Court.

The temple town of Mathura was on edge after massive violence claimed several lives as police clashed with about 3,000 members of a little-known sect whose leaders fled while 368 people were arrested.

PTI