20. Cronology of events and preventive measures by State Government

·         Curfew was clamped in Godhra on 27th February itself. RAF was deployed in Godhra on the same day.

·         As soon as the seriousness of the Godhra incident became known, the state government issued alert messages on 27th February 2002 to all district magistrates, commissioners and district superintendents of police. The administration was directed to exercise vigil and deal with anti-social and communal minded elements firmly.

·         As violence was reported on 28th February 2002, the police was directed in no uncertain terms to take effective action to disperse unruly mobs.

·         In fact, curfew was imposed in affected parts of Vadodara and Ahmedabad on 28th February itself.

·         On 1st March 2002, the administration was alerted to keep peace and provide adequate bandobast to places of worship.

·         On the same day (01-03-2002), the police was instructed to implement riot control measures, enforce the curfew strictly, intensity patrolling and take all necessary measures.

·         Further, Hon. CM and Hon. MOS (Home) have been constantly reviewing the situation.

·         State decided to call in central Para military forces on 27th February 2002 and thereafter the Army on 28th February 2002.

·         CPMF (1 coy BSF & 3 Coy. CISF) was deployed in Ahmedabad on 28th February itself.

·         The state also requested for additional forces from Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Two companies of Maharashtra reserve police force have arrived and are deployed in Surat.