Violence defamed Assam internationally: Shinde

He said the government was committed to provide security to all sections of people living in Assam and security forces were directed to take all possible measures to protect both Bodos and Muslims.

"The violence has defamed Assam internationally," he told reporters here.

Shinde said the administration has been asked to form coordination committees locally among Bodos and Muslims to restore peace in the violence-hit areas as early as possible.

Asked about the arrest of a Bodo MLA for his alleged involvement in the violence, he said, "Whosoever is involved in the violence will be punished... All guilty will be punished."

Shinde also said that it was the responsibility of the the Bodoland Territorial Autonomous Districts (BTAD) to restore peace in the affected areas.

Meanwhile, a 10-member delegation of Bodoland People's Front, led by its chief Hagrama Mohilary, met Shinde and lodged protests over the arrest of MLA Pradeep Brahma.

BPF leader Kampa Borgoyari said there was no evidence of involvement of Brahma in any violence.

He said BPF has urged Shinde to take necessary steps to restore peace in Assam and identify and deport all illegal immigrants.