Bhardwaj is understood to have pointed out that since allegations had been levelled against police in the case of killing of a youth from Bihar, a judicial or a magisterial inquiry would be appropriate.

Sibal and Reddy voiced concern over the violence against north Indians in Maharashtra, saying the developments did not send the right signals.

Patil told the meeting that his ministry had issued three advisories to Maharashtra government over the violence against North Indians and 56 cases were registered against Thackeray in connection with these incidents, the sources said.

When Patil said that his ministry had issued three advisories to Maharashtra, Paswan said if the state government still did not act to stop violence, the Centre should think about other options.

Pressing for Thackeray's arrest under NSA, Paswan said the MNS chief was getting out on bail in whatever cases had been filed against him.

He cited the case of MDMK chief Vaiko's arrest for his alleged statements in favour of LTTE and said why similar action should not be taken against Thackeray, the sources said.