Andhra Pradesh   

Steps to expedite trial of post-poll violence cases

By Our Staff Reporter

HYDERABAD, JUNE 29. The Home Minister, K. Jana Reddy, has partly conceded the Telugu Desam Party demand in the Assembly for the constitution of a special court to try cases of post-poll violence against TDP leaders in Anantapur district.

He assured the agitated TD members that the Government would not only take stringent action against factionalists, but also consider — after consultation with political parties — changes in the relevant Act or a special court to ensure speedy trial of cases. He also offered to provide security to those facing threats from factionalists.

Mr. Jana Reddy turned down the demand of the Leader of the Opposition, N. Chandrababu Naidu, for the arrest of the Gorantla MLA, P. Ravindra Reddy, the dismissal of the Panchayat Raj Minister, J. C. Diwakar Reddy, who also hails from Anantapur, and payment of compensation to the victims for loss of property.

The former Chief Minister wanted the Government to constitute a special court to go into cases of murder/arson committed after the recent Assembly elections.

The debate was marked by trading of charges by Congress and TDP members, who stalled the proceedings for some time, rushing to the Speaker, K. R. Suresh Reddy's podium, protesting against references made by N. Varadarajulu Reddy (Congress) against Mr. Naidu, quoting a press report of NTR's speech.

This was objected to by the TDP, which maintained that personal allegations against members should be avoided.

Amid protests, Mr. Jana Reddy maintained that the overall law and order was satisfactory. He attributed the few "sporadic incidents" after the elections primarily to "inter-personal conflicts over local disputes or fights for village supremacy.''

The Minister said the Government was committed to promoting and fostering religious tolerance and would firmly tackle fundamentalist violence and protect minorities' rights.

The police, he said, would give top priority to investigation of atrocities against women.

The Government would encourage family counselling centres and devote attention to ensure justice to Dalits and tribals.

Detailing steps to check factionalism in Anantapur district, Mr. Reddy said that as per the plan of action, senior police officers would visit problem villages in the district frequently, make night halts and counsel the rival groups.

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