Terming the attacks on commercial establishments during the funeral procession of Hindu Munnani activist as preplanned, members of the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) have demanded compensation for the affected persons.

Briefing media persons here today after visiting the areas where the riots broke out, they said commercial establishments became the targets of the rioters. “Even before knowing who the real killer was, they started pelting stones in residential areas and on shops that belonged to Muslims just to instigate them,” Gana Kurinji, State PUCL president, said.

He also alleged that police failed to take necessary action to curb the violence against the minorities despite having ample time. “They should have never allowed the procession,” he added.

“Affected persons should be given proper compensation for the loss they incurred. Only then can Coimbatore would return to normalcy,” said R. Murali, State secretary.

The team would submit the report to the State Government soon.