Protest at Jantar Mantar over violence in Iraq

NEW DELHI: Scores of people today took part in a protest here against the outbreak of violence in Iraq and urged the Narendra Modi government to ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the war-torn country.

Braving the scorching sun, about 200 people gathered for the protest at Jantar Mantar here under the aegis of a Delhi- based NGO.

"We have gathered here to send out a clear message that we condemn the acts of terrorism in Iraq. We want the government to intervene and ensure the safe release of our brothers in Iraq," said a speaker at the protest.

"We also want to say that our presence here signifies the unity of Shias and Sunnis. We condemn the rift the militants are trying to create between the two sects," he added.

Iraq is grappling with violence unleashed by militants of terrorist outfit Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) who have captured key towns as also a major oil refinery.

Meanwhile, until yesterday, 16 Indians stranded in the violence-hit areas of Iraq had been evacuated.

Also, of the 40 Indians being held in captivity in Mosul, one managed to escape even as the government said it was "knocking at all doors" to rescue its citizens.