The police have so far arrested 342 people from various parts of Gujarat for allegedly attacking non-Gujaratis, especially those hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, following the rape of a 14-month-old girl in Sabarkantha district on September 28.
Migrants are being targeted and beaten with sticks and stone, and hate messages are being circulated on social media after a migrant from Bihar was arrested for allegedly raping the minor. The child who was raped was discharged from hospital in Ahmedabad on Saturday. Her condition is stable and she is out of danger, a senior official of the hospital said.
“Six districts have mainly been affected (by the violence), with Mehsana and Sabarkantha being the worst hit. In these districts, 42 cases have been lodged and so far we have arrested 342 accused. More arrests will be made as names of the accused come up during investigation,” Director General of Police Shivanand Jha told reporters.
“Security of areas inhabited by non-Gujaratis and the factories where they work has been increased. Police have also increased patrolling in these areas,” he said.
When the media asked him about why so many people are flocking to railway and bus stations to get out days before they would be due to head home for the festival season, Jha said, “If people are leaving for home for a festival, it should not be seen otherwise. I have told my officers to visit residential areas, and if required, visit bus stands and railway stations and if people are found leaving due to fear, (then to) persuade them to come back.”
