Haryana, Punjab return to normalcy

The situation in violence-hit parts of Punjab and Haryana was limping back to normalcy on Tuesday with paramilitary forces personnel conducting flag marches in sensitive areas following Saturday's violence by supporters of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh protesting against registration of a fresh murder case against him.

The situation in Punjab and Haryana was peaceful and under control, top police officers of the twin states said.

Security personnel conducted flag marches in areas of Baghapurana, Moga and its adjoining places in Punjab, officials said.

Top police brass in the two states reviewed the security arrangements with officers of paramilitary forces and asked them to deal sternly with miscreants to ensure peace at all cost.

Tyres of a bus were burnt by miscreants late on Monday night near the residence of Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Singh in Punjab, the police said adding timely intervention of security forces personnel saved the situation.

The paramilitary forces and contingents of policemen in the two states continued to maintain a tight vigil at the troubled spots where the followers of the Dera chief had set afire trains and buses and damaged public property, he said.