MAHARASHTRA-Politics of a Strike

hanging fire as also that of overhauling the administrative machinery in Gauhati. The Deputy Commissioner and high police officials are likely to be changed and a better intelligence system organised. The compensation demand may not be conceded and instead the Government may undertake the task of rehabilitation of the affected persons. Credit and insurance companies have to be reassured about safety of private property. Thirtyfive private insurance companies have already stopped business covering riot risks. A flight of private capital is a distinct possibility. Its effect on local trade is already visible. Wagon loads of food articles are lying at the railway station uncleared and traders are complaining of shortage of storage space. The curfew continues, causing hardship to Assamese and non-Assamese alike. There have been complaints against misbehaviour by army men against innocent persons. Search for looted property continues and nearly 700 people have been arrested so far. Though peace committees have been formed in all the localities, normal life is yet to return. Prices continue to rise. The self-healing process of society will take time to manifest itself, but at least there is no sign of recurrence of trouble.