Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has been criticised for his alleged mishandling of the recent Muzaffarnagar riots. In an interview with NDTV, Akhilesh Yadav discusses the incident and speaks about his handling of the case. Below are the highlights:
I condemn the Muzaffarnagar incident and I am working on tough steps to ensure such incident don't repeat
Both BJP and BSP are responsible for tension, says Akhilesh Yadav
The Shamli incident involving a girl from Rourkeewas given communal colour
It started with this incident. Claims were made that the girl was molested.
Some people were sent to jail
BJP took up the arrest and campaigned
Same happened in Muzaffarnagar, even that was given a communal colour
There are some parties in UP who try to give a communal colour to every incident
In Kannauj, there was an accident involving a man on a cycle- that was given communal colour.
Action will be taken against those responsible for disturbing peace
There was no delayed reaction
Army was called and central forces and police were rushed to the area
Attempt was made to save people and help those who were trapped
I reiterate, there had been a huge loss for people and it will take time to help. Government will help and take action against people who were involved.
There will be an enquiry and action will be taken agains errant officials