Govt asked to take remedial measurers to end communal riots

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court yesterday asked the state government to take remedial measurers to curb communal riots in the state’s northernmost district of Kasargod.

The direction was given by Justice K T Shankaran while dismissing the bail applications of three convicted in riots in Kasargod.

The court observed that intelligentsia, political parties, NGOs, cultural and social organsiations and cultural leaders have a great role to play in setting right the society and a concerted effort by all was required.

The court held that if there is involvement of outside agencies in making things worse, their activities must be contained and curbed in the most ‘befitting manner’.

Smuggling, circulation of counterfeit currency, terrorist activities
have contributed to present situation, he said.

Adequate measures have to be taken to initiate confidence of public that there will be uniform treatment of members belonging to different religions, the court held.

During the consideration of the bail applications, the court had asked for the report of SP, Kasaragod in relation to the riots in the district.

According to the report submitted by him, in 2007, 18 cases were filed, in 2008, 39 cases and this year till May 31, 25 cases have been registered so far.