New Delhi, December 16: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) reportedly issued an advisory to all states and union territories on Monday, seeking the curtailment of violent protests which have erupted against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). The Home Ministry has directed all state governments and UT administrations to ensure protection of civilian lives and properties. Jamia Millia Islamia Protest Against Citizenship Amendment Act Draws National Attention: What We Know So Far.

The advisory notes that the MHA has taken cognizance of cases of arson and violence, under the garb of anti-CAA protests, being reported in several parts of the nation. The circumstances makes it imperative for all governments to take immediate measures to curtail the violence, it stated.

"MHA has issued an advisory to States and UTs, in view of incidences of violence and damage to public property being reported from some parts of the country, it's imperative all required measures be taken to contain violence, ensure protection of life and safety of citizens," the Ministry sources told news agency ANI.

"State governments and UT administrations requested to take requisite precautionary measures to maintain law and order, peace and public tranquility. They have also been requested to take action against circulation of fake news and rumours on social media having potential to incite violence," the sources added.

Update by ANI

In the violence which ensued during the protest march by Jamia Millia Islamia on Sunday, four buses of the DTC were burnt down. Even as the Jamia students' union, as well as the University's Vice Chancellor - Najma Akhtar - denied the involvement of students in the violence, the riot squad of Delhi Police entered inside the varsity campus and cracked down on students.

A similar police crackdown was also reported in the Aligarh Muslim University, where the students gathered last night to protest against the assault on their Jamia counterparts. The UP Police, in an alleged bid to suppress their demonstration, reportedly attacked the students inside the campus. To prevent mobilisation of protesters, the administration has also clamped down the internet services in Aligarh region.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 16, 2019 05:41 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).