MUMBAI: Maharashtra deputy chief miniter Devendra Fadnavis who holds the home portfolio on Tuesday announced that cases will be filed under Section 307 of the IPC (attempt to murder) against those who have indulged in violence and arson.
Speaking to the media in Mumbai immediately after the state cabinet meeting at Mantralaya, Fadnavis said some people are taking advantage of the (Maratha reservation) agitation and indulging in violence. Such violence will not be tolerated and video footages have been obtained of attempts being made to kill people by setting them on fire.
"The incidents of violence that occurred in Beed (district) yesterday…video footages have been obtained where people have tried to burn down homes of elected representatives, offices, persons belonging to a particular community have been targeted, hotels, dispensaries, institution have been set on fire. All this is wrong. Around 50-55 persons have been identified who have indulged in such acts and more are in the process of being identified. All of those who tried to kill people will be charged under 307," he said.
Ever since the agitation began, the government has been taking positive steps, said Fadnavis. "The chief minister has assured reservation will be granted and the government is fully committed to it. As a long term solution a curative petition mentioned in the Supreme Court and it will be heard by the apex court," he said.
The police, he said, will not be a mute spectator to the violence and arson and strict action will be taken.
Peaceful agitations will be allowed and the government will listen to what they have to say, he said. “Additional forces have been mobilised and deployed at different places. Police will continue action till peace is established,” he said adding certain political leaders and party workers too were present when the incidents of violence occurred. “Once video footage is obtained it will be shared,” said Fadnavis.
