As a result of the mob violence that erupted in Gujarat on Tuesday, August 25, after the detention of 21-year-old Hardik Patel, nine people have lost their lives. On August 26, Chief Minister Anandiben Patel was forced to call in the army to help maintain law and order.

Four people died in Ahmedabad, one in Mehsana and three in Banaskantha, as well as one police constable in Surat. Police estimates suggest at least 100 people have been injured during the violent clashes.

Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel arrive to board a special Indian army plane to leave for Gujarat in the wake of violence in several cities due to Patel community's agitation

Curfew was imposed in parts of the state including Ahmedabad, Mehsana, Palanpur, Unjha, Visnagar and Surat. Unfortunately the curfew did not deter protestors who took on policemen, ransacked government property, damaged buses and blocked highways. At least 140 state transport buses were set on fire and another 152 damaged.

As the situation worsened, PM Modi broke his silence on the matter, speaking in Gujarati he said, "We cannot indulge in such activities in the land of Gandhi and Patel. No one gains from violence or hatred. Any protest must be democratic and I appeal to my brothers and sisters to stay calm, maintain peace," as quoted by TOI.


Patel community supporters set ablaze buses in Surat on Wednesday. Patel community is agitating for OBC status