Baijal, Kejriwal appeal for peace in Punjab, Haryana

Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday appealed for peace and calm in Punjab and Haryana after supporters of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh indulged in large-scale violence following his conviction in a rape case.

Baijal also directed the police to ensure safety of residents and the public property in the national capital.

"I appeal to all to maintain peace and have directed Commissioner of Police to take effective measures to ensure protection of life and property," Baijal said in a tweet.

Kejriwal tweeted: "I urge everyone to stay calm and maintain peace."

Thousands of sect followers who had gathered outside the court complex in Panchkula in Haryana attacked security personnel and media persons and then went on a rampage.

At least 30 people have been reported killed in the violence and firing by security personnel to quell the rioters.

The violence spread to Delhi with two train coaches and a few buses being set on fire allegedly by followers of Gurmeet Ram Rahim.

--IANS

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