Violent protests by Gujjars spread to western UP

LUCKNOW: Violent protests by Gujjars spread to some districts in western Uttar Pradesh, disrupting rail traffic. The state government has issued strict directions to increase patrolling near railway tracks and stations to avoid any inconvenience to the public.

Rail traffic was disrupted due to protest by Gujjars and 13 trains coming from New Delhi and seven from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi were affected by the agitation.

The situation was later normalised but trains on this route are running late, Principal Secretary Home K Chandramauli told reporters.

"The protestors managed to remove around four feet portion of railway track near Dankaur railway station, resulting in delay of several trains, which were diverted through Tundla-Agra route," Chandramauli said.

In order to check spread of violence officers in sensitive districts like Saharanpur Muzaffarnagar, Gautam Buddha Nagar, and Meerut had been asked to initiate talks with local Gujjar leaders and public representatives to ensure that public transport did not affect.

About the Rajasthan government decision to seal UP-Rajasthan border, Chandramouli added, "I am neither confirming it nor denying. But if it has issued such orders it suits us".