The Prime Minister has assured the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh that the Centre will extend all the required assistance to the State in tackling the situation. Dr Manmohan Singh today spoke to Akhilesh Yadav about the steps being taken to restore peace in the areas which witnessed group clashes. Dr Singh also condemned the violence and expressed grief and shock over the loss of innocent lives.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari said, the Uttar Pradesh government must take action against those responsible for violence . He said UPA government has zero tolerance towards incidents of communal violence.

The Congress today accused individuals and groups with vested political interests of stoking violence. Party spokesperson Meen Afzal said those involved must be immediately arrested and strict action taken against them.

The BJP called for intervention by Centre and dismissal of state government. In a statement, Party President Rajnath Singh alleged that the track record of Samajwadi Party government in containing communal violence has been dismal.

The BSP also demanded President's rule in Uttar Pradesh and dismissal of the state government in view of communal violence in Muzaffarnagar. BSP chief Mayawati said the law and order machinery has collapsed in the state.

Demanding firm and strong action to put an end to the violence, the CPI(M) asked the state administration to involve all sections of the people to restore peace and amity. The party alleged that the state government is not showing the required vigilance to curb such incidents promptly. AIR correspondent reports that the situation in the troubled areas of the state is well under control.