Maharashtra Police is keeping a close watch on activities of anti-social elements ‘of both sides’, Maharashtra Home Minister Dilip Walse-Patil on Sunday said that no one would be allowed to disturb law and order situation in the State.

“Anti-social elements of both sides are under the scanner of the State Police. If anyone tries to disturb peace in the State, he would be dealt with an iron hand,” stated Walse-Patil during informal interaction with mediapersons at Ravi Bhavan during his one-day Nagpur visit.

“Law and order situation in the State was under control following row over statement of former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma,” stated the Home Minister applauding efforts of the police. The police officers had dialogue with various community leaders after the row erupted across the country. As a result, the community leaders responded to the police positively and helped in maintaining peace, he said. When reporters asked about growing activities of Popular Front of India (PFI) in Maharashtra, Walse-Patil said that the police were keeping watch on the activities of the organisation.

Asked about growing number of atrocities against children, Walse-Patil stated that the cops were initiating action against the culprits under POCSO Act. “The action would be harsher with Shakti Act,” he said, adding that the Shakti Act was returned to the State by the office of President of India for compliance on some points.

He also assured to instruct the SP Nagpur Rural to take the Kanhan rape case to be taken on fast-track court for faster delivery of justice to a minor victim and six molestation victims. A Karate teacher is accused in the case.