Modi calls for 'brotherhood' as communal mob ravages Northeast Delhi
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday appealed for peace as violence tore through much of Northeast Delhi in the past few days. The PM stressed on the importance of maintaining calm and normalcy as communal tensions peaked in Maujpur, Jaffrabad, Chand Bagh, and nearby regions. At least 22 people have been killed in the violence, which erupted on Sunday. Here are more details.
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'Appeal to Delhi citizens to maintain peace and brotherhood'
After an "extensive review," Modi tweeted on Wednesday, "Police and other agencies are working on the ground to ensure peace and normalcy." He added, "Peace and harmony are central to our ethos. I appeal to my sisters and brothers of Delhi to maintain peace and brotherhood at all times. It is important that there is calm and normalcy is restored at the earliest."
Delhi violence
What is happening in Northeast Delhi?
The violence in Northeast Delhi started on Sunday as a clash between pro and anti-Citizenship Amendment Act protesters. Till Tuesday, the clash spiraled into a communal riot with mobs torching homes, vehicles and public property, and thrashing people on the street. As per the latest update, the death toll now stands at 22—21 at GTB Hospital and 1 at LNJP Hospital.
Recent developments
Public's ire targeted at both Delhi and central governments
Both Delhi and central governments, especially the Union Home Ministry, faced the brunt of the public's ire as alleged police inaction flooded news reports. People called for Home Minister Amit Shah's resignation with #AmitShahMustResign among the top trends on Twitter on Tuesday night. Shah chaired three meetings within 24 hours in the wake of the violence. He directed the police to take quick action.
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Sonia Gandhi also demanded Shah's resignation
Among those asking for Shah's resignation were Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi. Slamming the Modi government, Gandhi said, "The Centre and the Union Home Minister is responsible for the present situation in Delhi. The Union Home Minister should resign."
Javadekar's retort
Gandhi's remarks unfortunate, condemnable: Prakash Javadekar
Criticizing Gandhi, Union Home Minister Prakash Javadekar said that her statement was "unfortunate and condemnable." He said, "At such times all parties should ensure that peace is maintained, blaming the government instead is dirty politics. Politicizing this violence is wrong." He further added, "They are asking where was Amit Shah. He took an all-party meeting yesterday where a Congress leader was also present."