Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh appealed for calm on Monday (December 24) as he sought to calm growing public outrage over the gang rape of a young woman that led to clashes between police and protesters in the heart of the capital at the weekend.<br/> <br />Singh, who has faced fierce criticism for remaining largely silent about the rape, vowed action against what he called a "monstrous" crime.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (English) INDIAN PRIME MINISTER MANMOHAN SINGH SAYING:<br/> <br />"I feel deeply sad at the turn of events leading to clashes between protesters and police forces. Anger at this crime is justified, but violence will serve no purpose. I appeal to all concerned citizens to maintain peace and calm. I assure you that we will make all possible efforts to ensure the security and safety of women in this country."<br/> <br />The 23-year-old victim, who was attacked and then thrown from a moving bus in New Delhi, remains in hospital in critical condition.<br/> <br />Police barricaded roads leading to the centre of the city, that has become a hub of the protests by mostly college students.
