Hisar:
Southern Haryana has been on edge. Two protesters were killed and dozens other injured in Hissar, when a protests by Jats in the city turned violent for a second day running.
Jats are demanding reservation under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) quota in government jobs and educational institutes.
Today their protest spilled over to adjoining districts of Jind, Bhiwani and Rohtak. All the roads leading to Hisar were blocked, and the entire city was put under curfew. Extra forces have also been called in to ensure the situation remains under control.
"Our demand is that we want our reservation. We will die for it. We will not turn back on this...we won't relent on this," said Bhim Singh, a local Jat leader.
"We appeal to the people to maintain peace. They should not resort to violence on this issue of reservation. As far as police force is concerned, we are ready to meet any challenge," said Ashwin Shainwi, SP Bhiwani.
Jats form more than 20 per cent of the population in Haryana, and are a key vote bank. One that the ruling Congress doesn't want to displease.
Chief Minister says the state government has favorably recommended for reservation and rest all other demands have been met. He claims that agitation has been called off.
"We have agreed to meet the demands of Jats. The Haryana government will give compensation and jobs to those injured," said Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Chief Minister Haryana.
Today's curfew succeeded in breaking the cycle of violence, but the aggressive stand taken by Jat leaders has made it clear that even if Jats soften their stand now, there are difficult times ahead for the Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda.