Rs.1 mn for those killed in Muzaffarnagar riots

The Uttar Pradesh government Wednesday announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs.1 million to the next of kin of each to the 38 people killed in the communal riots in Muzaffarnagar.

Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has also directed the Muzaffarnagar district authorities to ensure free and quality treatment to those injured, a spokesman of the chief minister's office here said.

Those seriously injured would be given Rs.50,000 each.

Yadav had earlier announced an ex-gratia of Rs.500,000 to the next of kin of each of the dead, barring Rs.1 million for a television journalist. But as the death toll rose, it was decided to hike the financial assistance, officials told IANS.

Officials in Muzaffarnagar have been asked to ensure prompt rehabilitation of the affected people.

"Instructions have been given to district officials that there should be no shortage of essential items and that a proper listing and assessment of damages be done," the official said.

Authorities have been asked to be in touch with the affected people and to collect details of loss to their property.