Hyderabad: Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) V Dinesh Reddy on Thursday warned Samaikyandhra agitators of stringent action if they go ahead with their proposed rail roko agitation in Seemandhra regions.
“For the impending rail roko we have appealed to them (protesters) in view of the Supreme Court direction (and on the likely misery that will cause to the travelling public) to withdraw from their move,” Reddy told reporters here. “…We are fully prepared to tackle the rail roko. Lot of forces (from within the state) and central paramilitary forces have already been deployed and we are in full control of the situation. We will also keep vigil by aerial survey,” he said warning of initiating stern measures against those indulging in squatting on tracks and rail roko and resorting to violence.
Referring to the ongoing protests by united Andhra Pradesh supporters in Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra districts, which entered ninth day on Thursday, the DGP said, “In AP, the law and order situation is well under control. The police is in total grip of the situation. No need for any worry at any point of time and there isn’t any marked violence.”
The AP police chief further said no permission has been granted to anyone to hold rallies in Hyderabad city and also warned of stern action against the AP non-gazetted officers (APNGOs), if they picket government offices.
“I have appealed to everyone that as long as the protests are within the walls of democratic norms we have no objection. We have appealed to them not to take law into their hands. Once if law is taken into hands and if there is any violence, it is the primary duty and responsibility of police to protect the rights of the individuals,” Reddy added.
Those who are agitating have the right in a democratic way but those rights will not go to the extent of infringing the rights of others. We will take very serious view of such acts, he said.
Replying to a query on reported threats to the people of non-Telangana regions staying in Hyderabad, the DGP said, “We assure their safety. The police is ever vigilant.”
To a question on the visit of Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi to the city on August 11, Reddy said, “The fact is that we have not made any statement on banning his visit…so he is welcome and we are making all arrangements (for his visit).” Modi is scheduled to address a meeting here on August 11. (PTI)
