India tribe death toll increases

By Sanjoy Majumder
BBC News, Delhi

Gujjars breaking up a rail track

At least 41 people have now died in clashes between police and members of a nomadic tribe in the western Indian state of Rajasthan.

The violence began on Friday when police opened fire on demonstrators from the Gujjar tribe. It continued through the weekend.

Thousands of security personnel including army troops are being sent to try to contain the violence.

The Gujjars are demanding to be included in affirmative action quotas.

Politically influential

The protesters have blocked rail and road access between Rajasthan and the national capital, Delhi, and a major highway linking the Rajasthan capital, Jaipur, to the city of Agra, which is home to the Taj Mahal.

Over the past three days, police have repeatedly opened fire on demonstrators from the Gujjar community.

Officials say the protesters have burned down a police station.

The Gujjars are a large and politically influential nomadic tribe spread across north India.

Last year at least 26 people were killed during similar protests.

The government announced an aid package worth $60m (£30m).

The community rejected the offer saying it wanted to be placed on an official list of disadvantaged tribal groups which benefit from preferential recruitment to government jobs and educational institutions.