Jat agitation: No reports of violence yet

ROHTAK: The Haryana Police on Sunday said the Jats protest has been peaceful so far with no reports of violence. "The agitation has peaceful so far. Several peace building measures have been undertaken to avoid the incidents, which took place last time," Rohtak's Superintendent of Police Shashank Anand told the media here. "The administration is closely monitoring the situation here. As of now, the protest is being conducted peacefully. We have told the organisers to maintain peace during the protests," he added. Anand also said the protests have this time witnessed the participation of several locals. "We have told them that the organizers have assured us of a peaceful protest and they should not disturb the law and order," he added. When asked on imposing Section 144 in Rohtak, Anand said it has been done on the orders of the District Magistrate. "We are monitoring the situation and it will be reviewed periodically if needed," he added. Anand further said the forces are continuously monitoring the situation, adding that permanent response teams have been set up and flag marches have been conducted in the area. Anticipating a repeat of February's violent protests which claimed at least 30 lives and injured hundreds, Manohar Lal Khattar-led government has this time deployed at least 48 companies of the paramilitary forces. Section 144, which prohibits a gathering of more than five people, has been imposed in various areas such as Hisar, Rohtak, Jind and Ambala. A dedicated helpline has been provided which will be monitored by a control room in Chandigarh round-the-clock. Bulk SMS and mobile internet services have been suspended in Sonipat and Rohtak districts till further notice. A section of the community spearheaded by All India Jat Arakshan Sangharsh Samiti will hold fresh protests in 15 places in the state. However, the umbrella body of Jat khaps (clans), the Sarva Jatiya Sarv Khap Mahapanchayat, has said it will not support the protests this time.