New Delhi: Though there has been no communal violence in Haryana in the recent past, any law and order problem in the neighbouring areas, especially Delhi, inevitably affects the state, a Haryana minister said today.

Addressing the National Integration Council meet here, Haryana Agriculture Minister Harmohinder Singh Chatha said "Haryana is a peaceful state with rich tradition of social cohesiveness and mutual tolerance...any disturbance in the law and order in any of the neighbouring areas, especially Delhi, inevitably affects the state."

Haryana links the national capital with the northern states of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. It also encircles Delhi on three sides.

Chatha claimed that despite provocation, the people of the state have maintained peace and communal harmony.

He said to instill confidence in the weaker sections of the society and minorities, and to ensure their protection and safety, several effective steps have been taken by the government, including stringent policing and creation of an efficient intelligence network.

"The state has also taken steps in bringing greater sensitivity and awareness towards minorities and vulnerable groups during police training," he said.

Community policing is being given higher priority as public cooperation is vital for collection of intelligence and maintaining communal harmony, Chatha added.
Source : PTI