Nashik violence figures in Maharashtra Assembly; Opposition attacks govt

MUMBAI: The violence at Harsul town in Nashik earlier this week found echo in Maharashtra Assembly today with opposition members charging the government with not doing enough to restore normalcy in the trouble-hit area.

The issue was raised by Jeeva Pandu Gavit (CPM) whose two adjournment notices seeking discussion on the matter was rejected by the Chair twice.

Gavit lamented that even though the notice seeking discussion was rejected, he was not allowed even to speak to draw the government's attention to the ground situation.

Jayant Patil (NCP) said the Chair was not allowing opposition members to raise issues.

"The government has failed to curb the violence in Harsul," he alleged.

Nashik Guardian Minister Girish Mahajan told the House that normalcy has been restored and he had visited the area twice to monitor the law and order situation, which is now peaceful.

Housing Minister Prakash Mehta, who is holding additional charge of Parliamentary Affairs, said the government will make a statement on the violence on Monday.

On Tuesday, one person (Ramdas Budhad) was killed in police firing when a protest march turned violent in Harsul.

The march was held to protest against the death of one Bhagirath Choudhary (26) whose body was found in a well in Baripada near Harsul on July 7.

Over a dozen policemen were also injured while trying to prevent miscreants from entering the riot-hit town.

According to police, 49 shops, 14 houses were damaged in the stone-pelting incident.