In order to avert the repeat of violence that took place during the previous Jat agitation in February, the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) has urged the Haryana government and Central agencies to take pre-emptive steps to ensure that the renewed protest does not disrupt life in the State and its neighbouring areas.
Water channels
Besides, strict vigilance must be maintained on all water channels and resources in the State, which are not only the supply sources to Haryana but other neighbouring States like Delhi as well, the chamber added.
“We hope the Haryana government, having learnt from the previous violent agitation that cost the State thousands of crores of rupees and several precious lives, will make foolproof arrangements to maintain the confidence of the common citizen and investors, particularly in cities like Gurgaon, Rohtak, Jhajjar, Sonepat, Panipat and Karnal,” said ASSOCHAM secretary-general D.S. Rawat.
“Along with better coordination with the Railways and Central agencies, all the highways and railway lines must be protected at any cost and no untoward incident should be allowed anywhere in the State,” Mr. Rawat added.
He added that the State was still reeling under the loss of property and lives during the previous agitation, which also made a dent in investor confidence there.
People’s confidence
Maximum damage was done to trade and small industries, and under no circumstances should people’s confidence be affected again.
ASSOCHAM appealed to Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar to personally monitor the developments and “let the State administration be on top of the situation, rather than taking reactive steps.”
The chamber said at a time the country needs growth in a difficult economic environment, no State can afford deterioration in the law and order situation.
“All stakeholders, and particularly those indulging in agitation, should respect the laws of the land.”
