Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi has issued a statement on Wednesday to appeal the citizens of Gujarat to maintain peace, and ensure the atmosphere of security and development in view of 24 September Ayodhya verdict and forthcoming festivals.

Modi in a statement said the entire country and Gujarat also is involved in celebration of various festivals presently. Coming days will bring more festivals including Navratri, Vijaya Dashmi, and Diwali. Moreover the elections are also scheduled to be held, and Ayodhya verdict will also be announced in this period. One would be curious enough to know the verdict, however over excitement will not be good for anyone. Gujarat has not witnessed violence, curfew etc for last some years. Gujarat is progressing on the foundations of peace and security.When the enemies of the nation are waiting for a chance to disturb the social harmony, the people should see that they don’t get success in their such motives. We the citizens of Gujarat have tasted the fruits of peace, security and development. The atmosphere of peace should be strengthen more.

Complete text of statement

In the country there prevails an atmosphere of celebration and religious activities which are in full swing. In Gujarat too all of you are immersed in the fervor of festivities be it religious, cultural or social.

In Gujarat zealous preparations are in full swing to celebrate the forthcoming festivals like Navratri, Vijayadasami and Diwali. These festivals give a boost to the economic activities of all, be it big or small. Even the poorest of the poor get good opportunity to earn their livelihood.

On the other hand elections are approaching. Besides, a decision is expected to come in the longstanding Ayodhya case. My humble appeal to all the citizens is that though you would be eagerly expecting the judgment please do not be swayed by excitement as it will not benefit anyone. Kindly remember that Gujarat has laid to rest for the past several years the ghost of violence and curfew.

Gujarat is today progressing on its strength of peace and social amity. Because of development the poor are able to get employment opportunities. According to a recent Government of India report, Gujarat has successfully given employment opportunities to 72 per cent of its youths and ranks as the topmost state in the sphere of providing employment. In contrast other states combined could only provide 28 per cent employment to the youths.

We must progress further in the path of development. We need to celebrate our festivals with joy and enthusiasm.

We have tasted the fruits of peace, safety and development.

Come…

Let us strengthen the climate of peace.

The country’s enemies are carefully watching us. Let us not allow any anti-social element to succeed in destroying the peaceful social fabric of our state. Therefore I appeal to you all that let us take the development of Gujarat further towards the path of progress with peace, self-control and patience.