PM appeals for peace in Gujarat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday appealed to the people of Gujarat to maintain peace, a day after the state witnessed violence at a mega rally seeking reservations for the Patel community.

"Since Tuesday, the type of atmosphere that is building up in the land of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel, the manner in which violence is being used as a tool... we all know that violence serves no purpose. We have always believed that the development of the state is possible only if we all walk together and stay united," Modi said.

"It is my appeal to my brothers and sisters that the occasion calls for a single mantra - peace. Each and every issue can be resolved through talks," the prime minister said.

"We all should follow the spirit of democracy. We must work together to solve problems through talks and contribute in efforts to take Gujarat to new heights. This is my humble request to all the brothers and sisters of Gujarat," he added.

A state-wide shutdown was observed in Gujarat on Wednesday, a day after a Patidar mega-rally was held here demanding reservations in education and jobs for the Patel community.

Hardik Patel, 22, convener of Patidaar Arakshan Andolan Samiti was detained and taken into custody by police after he launched a hunger strike at the GMDC Ground late Tuesday evening.