The Supreme Court today directed the Uttar Pradesh government to take immediate steps in association with the Centre to bring under control the violence in Muzaffarnagar and ensure safe passage to people stranded in the conflict zone.

Taking into account the grim picture of riot affected areas projected by a group of lawyers whose family members were affected in it, the apex court dismissed the plea of UP government that no order be passed on the petitions for the time being.

A bench headed directed the state government and the Centre to take immediate steps to bring stranded people to a safe place and also rehabilitate them. The bench also directed the authorities to ensure that those injured are provided with immediate medical assistance.

The apex Court issued notice to Centre and UP government on Muzaffarnagar violence and directed them to file response by Sept 16.