Patidar community stir: Internet services suspended in Gujarat's Mehsana

Section 144 (power to issue order in urgent cases of nuisance of apprehended danger) of the Code Of Criminal Procedure imposed and Internet services suspended till April 19 in Gujarat's Mehsana on Sunday after a clash broke out between police and members of Patidar community during their 'Jail Bharo Andolan', demanding release of their leader Hardik Patel.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel, who apprised him of the situation.

Sardar Patel Group leader Lalji Patel said, "We had written to the administration 10 days ago, informing them about our 'Jail Bharo Andolan' on Sunday. People injured in today's police action will file FIRs against them."

Meanwhile, the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) has called for a Gujarat bandh on Monday.

Mehsana Collector Lochan Sehra told ANI, "Section 144 has been imposed and Internet services suspended till April 19 in Mehsana. Protesters attempted to set two government properties on fire, pelted stones and set an SDM's vehicle on fire, which prompted police to use tear gas shells. The situation is, however, under control now."

He said the district administration had not granted their permission and a rejection letter was also sent on time.

"As many as 435 people have been detained and we are carrying out further investigating. Situation is normal now," Surat Police Commissioner Ashish Bhatia, warning that strict action would be taken against people who will try to disrupt peace in state.