Chandan Nagar riots, an attempt to polarize voters: SC panel

INDORE: Certain groups are trying to flare up communal tension ahead of assembly election in the state in a bid to polarize voters. This was alleged by the state co-ordinator of National Commission for Scheduled Castes, government of India, Maulana Mohammad Umar Qasmi here on Wednesday.
Qasmi along with members of commission was in the city to investigate Chandan Nagar riots.The commission held meeting with officials of district administration and police and also held a public hearing of riot-affected people. The commission will submit its report to the Union government.
He said that administration and state government has given an assurance that no one would be allowed to flare-up communal passion in the state. But in reality soon after the Chandan Nagar riots, tension broke out at Harda. In both cases the cause of riots was same- carcass of animal was found in the proximity of religious structure that led to tension. "The commission is worried over such incidents ahead of election," said Qasmi adding that the BJP government may use state-machinery and administration to instill fear in minds of people from a section of society.
He also raised the issue of detention of innocents after Chandan Nagar riots. Still 15 people are in jail. He also demanded compensation for injured and people whose properties were damaged in the riots.
On the other hand director of National Commission for Scheduled Castes, D Hanumantharaya expressed satisfaction over action taken by the administration after Chandan Nagar riot.
Collector Akash Tripathi said commission is for SC whereas the communal tension was between two communities. It was not in their jurisdiction to conduct a probe but we answered their queries. Later they inquired about cases related to atrocities against SC and status of SC hostels in district. We will send them the relevant information.