Patel row: Army out, PM Modi appeals for calm as 9 killed in Gujarat clashes

A police constable in Surat was among nine persons killed, six in police firing, Wednesday in a violent turn to the Patel agitation for OBC status and reservation in Gujarat. Authorities called in the Army and placed major cities and towns under curfew as violence spread and police battled mobs attacking police stations, government buildings and resorting to arson, stone-pelting and looting. The Centre ordered 5,000 paramilitary personnel to Gujarat as Prime MinisterNarendra Modi appealed for calm in his home state, saying “each and every issue can be resolved through talks”. Speaking in Gujarati on television, Modi said, “I appeal to all brothers and sisters of Gujarat that they should not resort to violence. The only mantra must be shanti.” Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Chief Minister Anandiben Patel and promised central help to deal with the situation. The Chief Minister also made a fresh appeal for peace. Indian Express