Big worry: Peace

A SLEW of appeals from the administration and religious leaders followed the twin blasts at Jama Masjid, asking the people to maintain calm and peace. The fear was of a communal flare-up.

A SLEW of appeals from the administration and religious leaders followed the twin blasts at Jama Masjid, asking the people to maintain calm and peace.

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The fear was of a communal flare-up.

Jama Masjid’s Shahi Imam Syed Ahmed Shah Bukhari in his message gave the example of the people of Varanasi. “Emulate the example of the people of Varanasi,” he said.

“Blasts took place at the Sankat Mochan temple, but the people did not react in anger and defeated the nefarious plans of the communal forces. Today, we need to do the same in Delhi.”Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and Delhi Police chief K.K. Paul among others reached the spot and also had a peace message. Paul warned against rumour-mongerers.