Ghatlodia violence: Warring communities begin peace talks

Ghatlodia remained tense on Thursday even though there were no fresh incidents of violence. The last two days were marred by frequent clashes between two communities and had witnessed large-scale destruction of property. On Thursday, leaders of both the communities began talks to resolve the dispute.

Babubhai Desai, a prominent community leader, told DNA that the talks were underway to find a solution agreeable to both the sides.

He said, "Talks with the other community have so far been productive. We believe that the dispute will be resolved within a day or two."

Desai said some anti-social elements had raked an issue which led to the members of the two communities clashing. "We have appealed to the members of both the communities to maintain peace as they otherwise share cordial relations and have economic and social links with each other," he said.

Desai said the problem had originated over the dumping of garbage in the area and snowballed into a major crisis.

The demolition of the temple, as alleged by one Jagdish Patel in a petition to Gujarat high court, was not an issue leading to riots, Desai insisted. "Those opposed to the demolition included members of both the communities, so that can not be a reason for outbreak of violence," he said.

A member of another community,  said, "The issue will soon be resolved as the two communities share close ties with each other. The crisis was initiated by some anti-social elements."

Sonal Patel, who had complained of intimidation by members of a community over the issue of garbage disposal, said, "We filed the complaint for our own safety after facing intimidation. The temple demolition issue is entirely different. The police are, however, investigating the matter.”