Communities come together at Gomtipur

‘‘We’ve never had a problem. For years, we have been celebrating all festivals together. The riots were a shame but things are normal again,’’ said Dinkar Makwana of Tulsi Park Society.

‘‘Those riot days were a test. We ensured that things did not get out of control. Now, it’s just like another day. Everybody has been enjoying the festival together,’’ added Dahyabhai Parmar, another resident.

‘‘Even during the riots, Dahyabhai and I ensured that youths from our areas did not indulge in any kind of violence. The peace continues even today. Children of both communities burst crackers together and play together,’’ claimed Iqbal Shaikh, councillor from the area.

However, the situation was not so harmonious in Shahpur and Dariapur areas of the city which witnessed a lot of violence during the riots. In Shahpur’s minority-dominated Zhulaiwada area, there was not much enthusiasm about the festival.

In contrast, the neighbouring Vanmali Vanka ni Pol area of Shahpur was buzzing with activity. Claiming that they had not celebrated Diwali with members of other communities for years, residents said they had no intention of doing so either.