Haryana appoints ex-DGP to probe officials' role in Jat stir

The Haryana government on Wednesday announced the appointment of retired police officer Prakash Singh to probe the acts of omission and commission on part of all officers and officials in the handling of violence during the Jat agitation.

Singh has been asked to submit the probe report within 45 days, a state government spokesman said here.

Parkash Singh, a former director general of police (DGP) of Uttar Pradesh and Assam, will probe the role of Haryana officials, both police and civil, during the Jat reservation agitation.

The violent agitation resulted in blockades of roads, including national highways, violence and extensive damage to public and private properties in many districts.

The spokesman said that Prakash Singh will be assisted by two serving officers of the state, each drawn from the IAS and IPS cadres, and other staff during the probe.

The Haryana Police and civil administration have been accused of not reacting to the volatile situation during the Jat agitation and not ensuring safety and security of common people and property.

The state government had to call in the army and paramilitary forces to control the deteriorating law and order. Army personnel had to be airlifted as Jat protestors refused to remove blockades on roads and railway tracks.

The state government also announced to give an interim or part assistance immediately to those who submit their details on a prescribed pro forma on the basis of self-assessment of the damage caused to their properties, the spokesman said.

"An applicant can claim up to 25 percent as an interim relief," he said.