Bharat Bandh: Protest over SC/ST Act results in death of nine people, several injured

At least nine persons were killed and hundreds injured today in violence across several states as protesters blocked trains, clashed with police and set fire to private and public properties, including police posts, during a nationwide bandh called by Dalit groups, officials said. Thousands were detained following widespread incidents of arson, firing and vandalism across over ten states, several of them being BJP-ruled including Madhya Pradesh where at least six persons died during the protests against the alleged dilution of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Normal life was affected today in Bihar following widespread disruptions in rail and road traffic, forced closure of offices and vandalism of property, as part of the 'Bharat Bandh' called by Dalit and tribal organisations against dilution of the SC/ST Act. The issue also rocked the state Assembly, which was adjourned till lunch break within minutes of commencement of proceedings.