India Proposes Summary Trials, Crackdown on Sectarian Groups to Curb Communal Violence
New Delhi, July 25: Home Minister Buta Singh today outlined a series of measures to prevent communal violence across the country. Addressing concerns over rising sectarian tensions, Singh announced that offenders would be tried summarily by special courts to ensure swift justice.
The minister also proposed barring sectarian organisations from receiving any state patronage, holding district administrations directly responsible for maintaining communal harmony, and regulating religious processions more strictly. Additionally, Singh emphasised the need for codes of conduct for political parties and the press to prevent incitement.
The measures come amid a spate of communal disturbances in various states. The government hopes that these steps will deter violence and promote inter-community trust.
In a separate incident, thirty-one people were killed and 13 injured when a bomb exploded in a central transport bus in Issinbessagala, two miles from Madawachiya in north-central Sri Lanka. This is the second bus bombing within three days, with the two blasts together claiming 68 lives. Most of the victims are believed to be members of the majority Sinhalese community. Officials suspect the bomb was placed in the middle of the bus.
