অ্যাকসেসিবিলিটি লিংক

At Least 13 Dead in Clashes Between Police, Villagers in India


Officials in India say at least 13 people were killed Tuesday in clashes between police and villagers in northwestern Rajasthan state.

The violence began after more than 20-thousand ethnic Gujjars blocked a highway in Rajasthan as part of a demonstration.

Government officials say police fired in self-defense when they were surrounded by an angry mob.

At least nine protesters and two policeman were killed in the violence. Local officials say two other police officers are missing and presumed dead.

The Gujjars are demonstrating to demand the government grant them special status as an impoverished tribe.

Under Indian law, members of such a group (called a "scheduled caste") are entitled to government jobs and educational opportunities.

Leaders of the Gujjar community have pushed for special recognition from the Rajasthan government for several years. Gujjars traditionally work as farmers and shepherds.

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