Date:05/03/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/03/05/stories/2006030504320900.htm

National

5 injured in violence in Goa

Special Correspondent

Police fire in air to quell violent crowds

Curchorem-Sanvordem (South Goa): Five persons, including three police personnel, were injured as violence, rioting and attacks on police personnel continued in these twin towns for the second consecutive day on Saturday, despite imposition of prohibitory orders under Section 144 of Cr.P.C.

Violence erupted on Friday following a confrontation between two communities over damage to a disputed abandoned structure by some miscreants on Wednesday night.

On Saturday, police lobbed tear gas shells and fired in the air to quell rampaging crowds at different places. Trouble arose after some people were arrested for unlawful assembly and violating prohibitory orders. Mobs attacked a police station demanding the release of those arrested. The injured were admitted to the Goa Medical College hospital and stated to be out of danger. Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ujjwal Mishra said the situation is "tense but under control."

Chief Minister Pratapsinh Rane along with Chief Secretary J.P. Singh visited the towns to review the situation, and appealed to the people to maintain calm. Governor S.C. Jamir also paid a visit to take stock of the situation.