Bhopal: Justifying the collective fine imposed on those allegedly responsible for violent incidents during Bhojshala controversy in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh government on August 7 said penalty would deter "fundamentalists" from making "petty" political gains.

"The state government has taken the strict step of imposing collective fine to discourage the practice by fundamentalist forces to get political advantage by damaging properties of innocent people in the name of caste and religion," State Home Minister Mahendra Baudh said.

Referring to Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP's) protest against collective fine, he said, "No person living in a civilised society would oppose the move except those who are accustomed to getting petty political gains and are apprehensive about their success in future."

In a statement, Baudh said, "It is an open secret as to who created controversy on Bhojshala issue and who damaged the properties of innocent people in violent incidents."

Stating that the state government is committed to take action against all involved in violence regardless of their religion, caste or creed, he said strict action would be taken against the elements disrupting communal peace and encouraging violence in the name of religion and caste.

State government has imposed fine of Rs 86.60 lakh against 296 people allegedly responsible for violence during Bhojshala controversy in February 2003, official sources said.

The collective fine has been imposed under section 21 of the Madhya Pradesh State Security Act, 1990, which is in force in the state since 1991, they said, adding that opportunity was given to make appeal against collective fine.

PTI