Gujarat Police on October 7 arrested nearly 342 people from various parts of state in connection with the attacks on migrants especially those hailing from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, following the rape of a toddler in Sabarkantha District on September 28.
Migrants started leaving for their villages from Ahmedabad after the alleged rape triggered revenge attacks against “non-Gujaratis” in the state.
Director General of Police Shivanand Jha said, “Six districts have mainly been affected (by the violence), with Mehsana and Sabarkantha being the worst hit. In these districts, 42 cases have been lodged and so far we have arrested 342 accused. More arrests will be made as names of the accused come up during the investigation.”
Migrants were targeted and hate messages circulated against them on social media after a native of Bihar was arrested for allegedly raping the 14-month old.
Jha added two cases have been lodged for spreading rumours on social media which led to massive violence.
DGP added 17 companies of State Reserve Police have been deployed in the affected areas.
DGP added, “Security of areas inhabited by non-Gujaratis and the factories where they work has been increased. Police have also increased patrolling in these areas.”
“If people are leaving for home for a festival, it should not be seen otherwise. I have told my officers to visit residential areas, and if required, visit bus stands and railway stations and if people are found leaving due to fear, (then to) persuade them to come back,” DGP added.
