THE Youth Congress staged a massive protest outside the Superintendent of Police (SP) office on Tuesday against rising crime in the city. A large number of Congress workers reached the SP office in a rally from Ghamapur. They raised slogans against the police administration and tried to enter the office premises. Police stopped the agitated congressmen at the barricades, leading to a light scuffle. Police later used water cannons to disperse the protesters. Several workers were taken into custody. The congressmen raised issues of murder, robbery, knife attacks and alleged growing drug trade in the city. They demanded the arrest of absconding accused and increased police patrolling in sensitive areas. They also sought effective action to control crime. Heavy police deployment was made around the SP office in view of the protest.

 

The main gate of the office was closed before the protesters arrived. Congress leaders alleged that incidents of murder and robbery are being reported regularly in Jabalpur. They said that the police had failed to control crime effectively. They also alleged that illegal liquor, gambling and betting and the sale of narcotic substances are increasing in the city. The leaders further alleged that people approaching police stations with complaints are not receiving proper response. They stated that complainants were often made to submit applications and then left waiting for action. The Congress leaders also alleged a nexus between some police personnel and criminals. They demanded action against officials allegedly involved in such activities. The YC men warned that they would launch a bigger agitation if the law and order situation did not improve. After the water cannon were used and several protesters were detained, the police brought the situation under control.