Ahmedabad: In recent times, incidents of stone pelting on religious processions, organized by the Hindu community, have emerged as a cause for concern in various parts of Gujarat. The most recent occurrences took place in Selamba and Manjusar, where stones were hurled at a Ganesh Visarjan (idol immersion) procession allegedly by members of the minority community.

To shed light on the pattern, reason, motives behind these incidents of stone throwing and possible solutions, we engaged in a conversation with senior journalist Japan Pathak who discusses the latest incidents of stone pelting, delves into the motivations of the perpetrators, and explores why some religious events are conducted peacefully in the state and some not. Additionally, he provides insights into potential measures that can be taken to apprehend and deter those responsible for these acts of stone pelting.

The series of stone pelting incidents has raised questions about communal harmony and the need for effective measures to curb this menace. Understanding the root causes and addressing the underlying issues is crucial to ensuring that religious events in Gujarat can be celebrated peacefully and without fear.