WEB DESK
Union Home Minister Amit Shah today said that adequate forces have been deployed in the affected areas of the national capital and the situation is under control.
Mr Shah chaired a meeting to discuss the current situation in the national capital after violence erupted in the North-East Delhi over the issue of Citizenship Amendment Act. Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, senior officials and representatives of different political parties attended the meeting.
During the meeting, Mr Shah urged the political parties to exercise restraint and rise above party lines to tackle the situation. He appealed to all to desist from spreading rumours and said, political parties should cooperate with police to quell these rumours and dispel fear among public. He also appealed to the people and media to communicate responsibly and avoid spreading rumours. He asked Delhi Police Commissioner to have senior police officers present in Police Control Rooms so that rumours can be dispelled as quickly as possible.
The Home Minister said, borders of Delhi with the states of Uttar Pradesh and Haryana have been under surveillance for the last three days and Delhi Police has been taking adequate steps in view of the upcoming Supreme Court hearing relating to issues pertaining to Citizenship Amendment Act. Mr Shah also urged the political parties to avoid provocative speeches and statements which could flare up the situation.
He also spoke of the need to re-activate local peace committees and said that those committees should include representatives of all sections of society, religions and eminent local persons. He said, feedback on the issue has been taken from local representatives and incorporated for further course of action after discussions with Lieutenant Governor and Delhi Police Commissioner. Mr Shah noted that the professional assessment is that the violence in the capital has been spontaneous. He expressed confidence in Delhi Police and said that the force has shown maximum restraint to get the situation under control.Those present in the meeting expressed grief on the death of Head Constable Ratan Lal, who was killed yesterday.
Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal termed the meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah positive, saying it was decided that all parties will take necessary steps to restore peace in Delhi. He said, police is doing their part and Home Minister has assured that whatever force is needed will be provided.
Meanwhile, the Lt. Governor and Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik paid tribute to Delhi Police Head Constable who lost his life during violence yesterday. The tribute was paid during wreath laying ceremony. Mr Baijal also instructed all concerned to extend all possible assistance to his family .
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia met the injured at Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital in the city. Mr Kejriwal also visited Rajghat, the memorial of Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi to pray for peace and normalcy in the city.