'Police did not intervene in Maruti's Manesar violence'

The SIT, probing the July 18 violence at Maruti's Manesar plant, includes same police officers who were on the spot on the crucial day and allegedly did not intervene during the complete episode, in which a senior executive was killed, a company official said Tuesday.

It was Haryana government's job to decide on the investigation agency and its officers, the official said on condition of anonymity.

"The head of Special Investigation Team (SIT), Assistant Commissioner of police (ACP) Ravinder Tomar, Manesar police station chief Omprakash along with a senior district administration officer were on the spot but remained inactive despite several requests by company guards," the official alleged.

"Same officers are now leading the investigation. Out of 55 workers and union leaders who has been booked by names, only six have been arrested," he added.

"There were nearly 70 policemen on the spot that day. Had they stopped the workers going upstairs, the precious life of Manager HR Awanish Kumar Dev could have been saved," said the company official.

Meanwhile, employees Tuesday joined deceased Awanish Kumar Dev's family in a prayer meeting held at Pragati Vihar, New Delhi. Dev was killed during the labour violence of July 18.

Thirteen days after the violence at Maruti's Manesar plant, the culprits continue to be at large. The company is yet to take a decision on resumption of operations.

"It was Haryana government's right to appoint the probe agency and officers... the company's top brass are keeping an eye on the issue," Maruti's spokesperson told IANS.

Deepak Anand, general manager of Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) and complainant in the incident of violence, refused to comment.

The labour violence which rocked the Manesar facility on July 18, led to nearly 100 people being injured and Dev being killed. The attackers also set fire to the office wing and the main gate's control room.

Till now police have arrested 102 workers for violence. The company will announce its decision on resumption of work only when it is assured of employee safety.