Bhopal: The police in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh have so far arrested 104 people in connection with the communal violence, which broke out at Khargone on April 10 during Ram Navami processions. They are all Muslims. But the police action failed to surprise many as it was already indicated by the political leadership of the state, which had already put the blame for the mayhem entirely on the minority community — arguing that the riots erupted after the rally was attacked.
Of the 26 FIRs (first information reports) registered in the past two days, one only has been lodged by a Muslim complainant.
Tilak Singh, deputy inspector general of police (DIG), Indore Division, confirmed 104 have been taken into custody and 70 of them have been sent to the prison.
He said a total of 26 FIRs, including one by a Muslim, have been recorded based on the complaints received.
Asked why is it so that only one FIR has been lodged by Muslims, he said the minority community is not coming forward to give complaints for registration of a case.
However, locals alleged an atmosphere of fear has been created; and therefore, Muslim complainants are not going to police stations for registration for FIRs. They are afraid of getting arrested if they approached the police.
To strengthen their allegation, the locals referred to the demolition drive launched by authorities just a day after the violence.
Within two days of the violence, more than 32 shops and 16 houses belonging to Muslims were arbitrarily brought down. Web Desk
