At least 6800 northeast people in Bangalore began fleeing to their homes on Wednesday evening after hearing rumors about possible attacks in the city. Around 1000 people are expected to leave tonight, officials confirmed.
"Nearly 1,000 people are expected to leave tonight. We have requested them not to leave Bangalore," Home Minister R Ashoka told the Times of India.
The rumors started circulating through SMS texts, which carried threatening messages about attacks on north-east Indians by a section of society. Reports said that attacks were to take place after Eid.
On Thursday morning, Karnataka police slammed the rumors and requested the masses to not leave the city where they have lived for many years.
"Bangalore is safe, don't believe in rumours, don't leave Bangalore," the Home Minister announced at the city railway station through the public announcement system.
The government has declared full support and protection in favor of the north-east communities residing in several parts of the state.
The state police has given a helpline number 9840801021 for people who feel threatened or unsafe. Police said that the sensitive areas in the city will be patrolled day and night till the issue calms down.
The police has also begun a probe to nab those spreading the rumors.
"Action will be taken against those spreading rumors. There is no need to fear," Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde said according to TOI.
Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar said, "There was nothing to worry. We will provide you full protection."
"Patrolling the area will be done. This apart, security will be provided to the properties of those who have already left Bangalore. Police will be holding peace committee meeting involving all the sections of the society," he added.
Meanwhile, Assam's CM Tarun Gogoi also appealed to the people to panic and give into such rumors .
"There is panic amongst our students and people across India. A lot of rumours are doing the rounds, this is creating panic amongst the people. There is no need to panic, people should not give in to rumors," he said according to IBNLive.
Muslim leaders in the state have also appealed for people to remain calm, assuring that "Those feeling unsafe, may take shelter in our homes, mosques," NDTV news channel reported.
