Political parties behind UP violence? Shinde thinks so

Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde on Wednesday warned that the country may witness more communal violence ahead of the 2014 general election as he indicated that some political parties could be behind the riots in Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh.

"I cannot say about political conspiracies till I get a complete report about the violence (in Muzaffarnagar). But political parties could indulge in," he told media persons in New Delhi on the sidelines of a function.

The Home Minister's comment came when asked whether there was any political conspiracy behind the Muzaffarnagar riots. Clashes in Muzaffarnagar and adjoining towns have claimed 40 lives.

Shinde said the central government has already warned 11 states about possible communal violence ahead of 2014 general election and asked them to remain alert about such designs.

"As we approach towards the election, we may witness more such communal violence. We have alerted 11 states," he said.

The Home Minister, however, refused to blame the Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party government for the riots in western Uttar Pradesh, saying situation there has improved considerably now.

"80 companies (8,000 personnel) of paramilitary forces were deployed (in UP). Army was also deployed. Curfew has been relaxed now. Situation is improving," he said.

Curfew has been relaxed in some parts of Muzaffarnagar district. Strict vigil was being maintained during the relaxation period and police and paramilitary forces were on high alert.