The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement on February 20. THE Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) expresses its deep anguish and concern over the grave situation resulting from the ongoing agitation demanding reservation for Jats turning violent, leading to the tragic death of four persons reportedly in police firing. Many more are reported to have been grievously injured and undergoing treatment. The PB expresses its solemn condolences to the bereaved families. Widespread loss of public and private property in arson, clashes and looting during last 24 hours have crippled normal life in the state with the total collapse of law and order machinery. The CPI(M) is clear that the crisis is a consequence of totally inept handling of the issue by the BJP led state government. Instead of showing responsibility to engage all concerned stake holders, it allowed the situation to drift and escalate through the opportunistic double speak of ruling party leaders. These leaders stand divided along caste lines from the outset with the motive of appeasing various communities to which they belong. The pent up anger has accumulated among toiling sections as a result of ruinous agrarian policies giving rise to acute unemployment and distress has also got manifested. The CPI (M) appeals to all sections of the people not to fall prey to the divisive slogans of caste passions and maintain social harmony and unity so that normalcy is restored for amicable settlement of all genuine and legitimate demands. The Polit Bureau also demands adequate compensation be provided to the families of the dead and seriously injured and utmost care be accorded for the treatment of the injured. Finally, the PB of the CPI(M) hopes that after all these terrible developments, the BJP-led state government shows responsibility to restore governance to address the deep-seated concerns of the people and creates the necessary atmosphere for constitutional rule.