Jenkins’ Deliberations on Communal Conflict with the Leaders of Punjab: 1946-47 (Part-II)

Abstract

Bhim Sen Sacher informed Jenkins about the destruction caused by arson in Lahore. Akbari Mandi, Chune Mandi, Chauhatta Basti, Bhagat Singh Basti, Kucha Kagzian and Pipal Vehra had been burnt down. The fire brigade could not cope with those vast and dispersed areas. If someone tried to extinguish the fire he was shot at by the police. Bhim Sen Sachar suggested that the only way to save Lahore was to impose martial law in the city. He hoped that the Governor would take that step immediately.64 Jenkins thanked Lala Bhim Sen Sachar and Gokul for their letters informing him about Lahore. Jenkins explained that fire brigade had done a good job in spite of constraints and difficulties. He believed that all communities had access to incendiary materials, and could use it without detection by traversing joined roof-tops. Throwing fire-balls from one house to another was wreaking devastation. Checking trouble of that kind was not an easy job, but searches were carried out and culprits were arrested.6