Thousands more flee Bangalore and Pune despite govt. appeal

18 August, 2012

Despite the continuous effort of the government.to calm people, the Notheasterners continue to flee from Bangalore, Pune and Hyderabad.

DESPITE THE Prime Minister's appeal for calm, the conflict between Muslims in Assam and Bodo tribals threatens to spill over to the rest of the country - even as thousands of people from the North-eastern states are flocking to railway stations in Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Pune to go back to their homes in the north east - fearing that they could be attacked.

Karnataka felt loss of business in absence of North-east workers. Hotel owners and service sector business owners were seen pleading with their employees at Bangalore City railway station to persuade them not to leave. Nonetheless, more than 6,000 people reportedly left the city last Wednesday, and another 3,000 moved out last Thursday.

Karnataka government's promise to ensure safety of all North-eastern people did not seem to be working.

At least 2000 people from North-east left Pune for home on Thursday fearing fresh attack due to Assam backlash. Minister of State for Home, Sty Patil urged them not to panic and not to believe in false SMSes.

Pune police commissioner, Gulabrao Pol said that the security had been stepped up in the city to prevent fresh violence. But those leaving could not be stopped, he added.