Search the Internet          Tips

Bandh begins in Gujarat, Fernandes arrives to take stock

The VHP has called for the bandh to protest against the terrorist attack on the Swaminarayan temple in the Gujarat capital.

Tension has gripped citizens in localities like Gomtipur and minority-dominated Juhapura on Ahmedabad's outskirts, which had been hit by violence in the aftermath of the Godhra carnage.

"The situation is under control and every precaution has been taken to prevent a recurrence of what happened during the February 28 VHP-sponsored bandh to protest against the Godhra carnage," a senior police official said.

However, no precautionary arrests have been made so far, police said.

Besides paying a visit to the Akshardham temple complex, Defence Minister Fernandes is likely to oversee deployment of army troops in the state during the bandh, sources said.

Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel have been deployed in sensitive areas of Ahmedabad and other places, including Vadodara, a Gujarat home department spokesman told PTI.

A few two-wheelers and autorickshaws were plying on Thursday morning in the majority-dominated Navrangpura, Ashram Road, Paldi and adjoining areas in Ahmedabad.

Several minority organisations have condemned the terrorist strike saying no religion would approve of such dastardly acts in a place of worship. Minority leaders have appealed for peace and advised sanity.

RELATED REPORT
Bandh evokes partial response in Mumbai

The Temple Attack: Complete Coverage
The Swaminarayan sect

Back to top

Tell us what you think of this report