Old City Finally At Peace

Communal violence hit areas of the Old City remained peaceful on Tuesday with no fresh incidents being reported from any locality.

At least six people, including five policemen, were injured during the incidents of heavy stone pelting in Sabzi Mandi area on Monday night. More than 15 shops were also set ablaze by miscreants. However, quick reaction by the police ensured that the violence did not spread to other areas.

Immediately after the incident, the City Police closed entry points to Sabzi Mandi and other violence-hit areas. Patrolling was intensified, additional pickets were deployed and Section 144 was clamped in all the sensitive areas. However, the shops, business establishments and educational institutions remained closed in Sabzi Mandi and surrounding areas.

According to sources, at least 20 youth were picked up by the police on the suspicion of their involvement in the incidents of violence, which were triggered due to the burning of religious flags.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy asked Home Minister P Sabitha Indira Reddy to review the situation and the incidents that took place at some areas in the Old City. He directed the Home Minister to take stern action and book the culprits immediately. Speaking over phone on Tuesday morning from Medak Indiramma Baata programme, he advised Sabitha to make all efforts for the maintenance of peace and law and order in the Old City.

The Chief Minister also directed Chief Secretary Minnie Mathew, Director General of Police V Dinesh Reddy and Police Commissioner Anurag Sharma to closely monitor the situation. (INN)