New Delhi: As the controversy over distribution of tridents by Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leaders rages, thousands of swords were distributed on April 16 at a conclave, in the presence of Samajwadi Party general secretary Amar Singh.

The about two-feet swords were distributed among all the 3,000-odd people who attended the 'Kshatriya' conclave at Talkatora indoor stadium.

Many of the participants were seen raising the swords both outside and inside the stadium during the five-hour event. Several people were seen carrying more than one sword.

Police were taken by surprise by distribution of swords in such a large number and have decided to "look into the matter".

"The organisers had informed us that they would make symbolic distribution of swords to a few respected leaders of the Kshatriya community, saying it was a part of their custom. But it turned out that more than 3,000 swords were distributed at the event," a senior police officer said.

"We will seek an explanation from the organisers," he said.

The 'Kshatriya maha sammelan' was organised with the objective of inviting the members of the community to "fight the battle for existence" in the backdrop of slapping of Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) against independent Members of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Uttar Pradesh Raghuraj Pratap Singh alias Raja Bhaiya "by Mayawati government with the help of BJP".

"Kshatriyas are being humiliated," the invitation pamphlet said.

PTI