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Writer's pictureUma Parashar

Godhra 2002: Revealing The Truth

In the heartland of India, where diversity intertwines with tradition, there exists a town called Godhra. This once peaceful place became a symbol of tragedy and unrest when an incident occurred that shook the very foundation of its harmonious coexistence. The Godhra Kaand, as it came to be known, left a trail of sorrow and bitterness in its wake. However, amidst the chaos, this story seeks to shed light on the healing power of unity and hope. On a fateful day in February 2002, a train carrying 58 Hindu pilgrims, known as karsevaks, was returning from Ayodhya. They had embarked on a spiritual journey filled with devotion and faith. Little did they know that their journey would end in a horrifying tragedy. As the train halted at Godhra station, tragedy struck in the form of a fire that engulfed one of the carriages. Panic and screams echoed through the air as lives were lost and chaos ensued.


The incident ignited a spark of unrest that spread through Godhra like wildfire. Religious tensions heightened, and the blame game began. Maulvi Husain Haji Ibrahim Umarji, a respected cleric, was accused alongside a dismissed Central Reserve Police Force officer named Nanumiyan, who were believed to be the "masterminds" behind the arson. The city, once united by its history and heritage, was now divided by suspicion and anger.

A long and arduous battle for justice followed the tragic events of Godhra. The riots that ensued claimed the lives of both Hindus and Muslims, leaving a scar on the collective conscience of the nation. As the government sought answers through numerous investigations and commissions, the blame was placed upon then Chief Minister Narendra Modi. The weight of responsibility fell heavily upon his shoulders, with accusations of complicity following him.

Amidst the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerged. The Supreme Court formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the Godhra incident impartially. After meticulous examination and scrutiny, the SIT cleared Narendra Modi of complicity in the violence. Moreover, claims that the state government had not done enough to prevent the riots were also rejected. Though this judgment may have sparked anger and disbelief among some, it paved the way for reconciliation and healing.

The wounds inflicted upon the people of Godhra and the nation as a whole may never fully heal. Lives were lost, scars were etched deep into hearts, and communities were torn apart. However, through the passage of time, the importance of unity and hope emerged as a guiding light. People from all walks of life, regardless of religion, extended hands of friendship and support to one another. Together, they began the arduous journey of rebuilding trust, fostering harmony, and moving forward, undeterred by the shadows of the past. Opposition still blames Modi till date for the riot even after he has received a clean chit from SC. This is just a hatred spread over for defaming the then CM and the current PM.


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