The Prime Minister has assured the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh that the Centre will extend all possible assistance to the State in tackling the situation in violence-hit Muzaffarnagar district. 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.

Meanwhile, the CPI(M) has demanded firm and strong action to put an end to the violence in Muzaffarnagar district of Uttar Pradesh. Party Polit Bureau said in a statement that the administration should involve all sections of the people to restore peace and amity. Strongly condemning the violence, the party accused the state government of not showing the vigilance required to curb such incidents promptly.