Gujarat violence

The Godhra riots broke out in the state following the apparent murder of 58 Hindu pilgrims on a train. About 1,000-2,000 Muslims were killed as communal violence broke out. In response, the Modi government imposed curfew in the state, issued orders of shoot-at-sight, and called in the Army. There were accusations that the violence was incited by the Modi government, although the Special Investigation Team (SIT) did not find any such strong evidence. However, on 7 May 2002, Raju Ramachandran, advisor to the Supreme Court for this case, held an opposite view and said that Modi can be prosecuted. The matter snowballed into a national-level debate, with opposition parties demanding Modis resignation. He did do, and elections were held again.