Take fast steps to restore confidence in Haryana, ASSOCHAM to CM

Expressing concerns over a huge loss of lives and property in Haryana, ASSOCHAM today said Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar should ensure that those who have suffered at the hand of violent agitation should be compensated in a speedy manner to restore confidence in the state.

"The Jat agitation seeking OBC reservation has resulted in one of the worst violence in the state, which had been so far been known as peaceful and progressive and had remained a preferred investor destination. While these incidents have shaken India Inc present inside and outside Haryana, immediate succor would partly restore confidence," ASSOCHAM President Sunil Kanoria said in an appeal.

While the ASSOCHAM Research Team had done initial estimates of loss to the state's economy and public private property between Rs. 18,000-20,000 crore, the damage could even rise, given an unprecedented level of damage done to cities like Rohtak and Jhajjar, which have suffered maximum of the brunt.

The chamber President also urged Home Minister Rajnath Singh to help the state government in providing relief to the people of Haryana. "The Centre should strengthen the state administration by way of finances and logistic support in rebuilding the damaged infrastructure. At the same time, individuals who have suffered losses to their properties should be immediately compensated" added Kanoria.

He said a thorough post-mortem of the violent incidents should be done to ensure that never such things are repeated. Besides, complete probe should be initiated to punish those who indulged in loots, arson, rioting and killings of innocent.

Hundreds of small shops, malls, factories were burnt besides huge damage to the public property. Thousands of people were left stranded on the highways and are still suffering. No economic development can take place unless lives of people are secure. Thus, immediate confidence building measures have to be implemented.