Saharanpur violence pre-planned: Kalraj Mishra

Union Minister Kalraj Mishraon Sunday said it appeared Saharanpur clashes were pre-planned and asked political parties not to politicise the issue.

"The manner in which members of a particular community attacked those, who were protesting against forced grabbing of land, is indicative of a serious conspiracy," he said.

"The Saharanpur incident is unfortunate. It seemed it was a pre-planned attack," Kalraj told a news channel.

The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Minister said the so-called dispute could not be termed as land dispute.

"There is a need to pay special attention to this issue. The government, without any discrimination, must act against those who are guilty," he said.

The Minister asked parties to desist from politicising the issue. "Whether it is Congress or SP, they should not politicise the issue. The government must act against those indulging in such activities."

Kalraj alleged divisive forces were becoming active in the country.

Yesterday, three persons were killed and 19 others, including policemen, injured in the clashes as mobs indulged in arson after which curfew was clamped and shoot-at-sight order issued.