Violent Stone-Pelting Incident Disrupts Ganpati Celebrations in Surat's Variyavi Bazaar

In Surat, a late Sunday night incident of stone-pelting targeted the revered Ganpati idol at the Variyavi Bazaar, escalating tensions in the area. The idol, popularly known as 'Variyavi Cha Raja,' was attacked by a group of youths, which led to a significant disturbance and a swift response from the organizers and police.

Authorities managed to detain all the stone-pelters involved, who were subsequently taken to the Sayedpura police station. The situation escalated as a large crowd gathered and surrounded the police station, prompting the police to disperse the crowd using batons and tear gas.

The stone-pelting also resulted in injuries to more than ten police officers, including DCP Vijay Gurjar. The police faced additional hostility from locals, who also pelted stones from nearby houses.

Gujarat's Home State Minister, Harsh Sanghvi, confirmed that 27 individuals had been detained, emphasizing that peace had been restored at the site. He assured that the police were maintaining strict vigilance and that no one would be allowed to disrupt Gujarat’s peace. Despite some residents locking their homes to evade arrest, Minister Sanghvi stated that all perpetrators would be apprehended, underscoring a zero-tolerance approach towards such disruptions.

The incident has drawn condemnation from the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and local leaders. Early Monday, in the presence of Minister Harsh Sanghvi, Mayor Dakshesh Mavani, and Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gehlot, a peaceful aarti was conducted, marking a return to tranquility after the unrest.

The police's ongoing combing operations aim to ensure the safety and security of the area, while legal actions are being prepared against all involved in the violence. The community leaders have pledged to work together to prevent such incidents in the future, highlighting the importance of communal harmony and public safety.