Bhopal, Aug 08: Rejecting the BJP demand for rollback of the Rs 86.60 lakh collective fine imposed on those involved in the communal violence in Dhar over the controversial Bhojshala, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijay Singh today said the penalty was imposed under a law enacted by the previous BJP government. The collective fine has been imposed under Section 21 of the Madhya Pradesh State Security Act of 1990, enacted during the Chief Ministership of Sunderlal Patwa, and there is no question of reconsidering it, Singh told reporters. Singh said collective fine has been imposed on those against whom fir had been filed in connection with the violent incidents in Dhar district demanding reopening of Bhojshala in February this year. Direction has been given to exempt people below the poverty line from the collective fine, he said, adding Commissioner of Indore has been given empowered authority and those facing penalty can appeal before him.
Replying to a query, the Chief Minister said collective fine would also be imposed in connection with the cow slaughter episode that took place in Ganjbasoda last year.
He said the state government would appeal in higher courts if anyone facing collective fine is acquitted in a criminal case.
Money raised from collective fine would be used for the welfare of downtrodden, he said, adding there would be no discrimination on religious or caste lines while imposing it.

Bureau Report