Violence was also reported from nearly a dozen other parts of the city around midnight and the Army was put on standby.
Bombay-Thane Riots
The Army moved into Govandi in northeast Bombay at 11pm following widespread violence there, resulting in five deaths in police firing. Violence was also reported from nearly a dozen other parts of the city around midnight and the Army was put on standby. Even as an uneasy calm prevailed in Bhiwandi, the rioting in Bombay and Thane continued unabated, taking the toll to 81.
India-Pak Visa Rules
India and Pakistan took an “important” step forward in developing closer ties by deciding to permit group travel between the two countries and liberalising visa rules for certain categories. Indian and Pakistani foreign secretaries M Rasgotra and Niaz A Naik signed a protocol on group tourism and exchanged letters on amending visa rules. They said they were hopeful that these agreements would lead to understanding on other matters.
By-election Polling
A surprisingly heavy turnout of voters despite the scorching heat marked the first round of by-elections in 20 assembly constituencies spread over 12 states. An otherwise peaceful poll was, however, marked by violent clashes in a few constituencies like Asifnagar in Andhra Pradesh, Belgachia in West Bengal and Taoru in Haryana. In three constituencies in Bihar and two in Uttar Pradesh, polling went off peacefully.
Philippines Protests
Four people, including an Army cadet, were killed and 18 injured in violent protests sparked by alleged vote-rigging in the central Philippines city of Cebu, the police said. The Election Commission suspended vote counting after about 50,000 demonstrators hurling rocks and Molotov cocktails marched on the provincial Capitol building and clashed with security forces. The office of the provincial governor said the cadet was fatally wounded by gunshots apparently fired by demonstrators.
