Eight Malaysian families registered with the High Commission of Malaysia were reported safe with riots in the state of Haryana, India, worsening in the last 24 hours that saw the number of deaths rising to nine and more than 100 people injured.

An official said an advisory was issued to Malaysians in the border city of Gurgoun, located about 45 minutes drive from the capital, to avoid areas affected by the riots.

"We are monitoring the situation very closely and a report has already been submitted to Wisma Putra," said the official when contacted today.

Indian Home Ministry officials and local police in Haryana confirmed that more than 3,000 paramilitary soldiers had been airlifted late yesterday evening to the affected areas after protesters blocked major highways and railway routes.

A curfew has been imposed in five major districts of the state in Sonipat, Rohtak, Bhiwani, Jhajjar and Rohtak.

The protest which has entered its ninth day, virtually isolated the state, with a population of 26.4 million, from the rest of India.

Internet remains suspended and authorities have issued 'shoot on sight' orders to security forces.

- Bernama