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Holed up inside, priest watches over flock

Holed up inside, priest watches over flock

Author:
Publication: The Indian Express
Date: September 25, 2002
 
Vivekjiwan Swami, spokesperson of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) was one of those still stuck inside the temple complex late in the evening. From 'Reception 4' he spoke to The Indian Express at about 9 pm and narrated the whole incident to Janyala Sreenivas.

"I had come from Ahmedabad to Gandhinagar and had just entered the temple complex when the fixing started. Immediately, all our volunteers were informed through intercom phones to close all the doors of the various halls.

About 500 people were inside the complex when the firing started. I have come to know that 13 men, 6 women and some children have been killed. Security forces have moved in and they are doing a good job of taking out the people safely from the complex.

Now about 100 of us are inside the multi-utility hall and are - safe as heavy doors have been bolted. Armed commandos have also been posted for security. I don't think there are any hostages with the terrorists. They have been located by commandos and there is a heavy exchange of fire between them. In fact, even as I am speaking to you, I can hear constant firing.

The terrorists are now holed up in the 'parikrama'. Our volunteers are looking after those who are stuck with us in the halls. We have been asked not to move out now by the security forces as the terrorists are firing. The temple has not been desecrated at all in any way although I think they threw bombs but they have gone up the 'parikrama'.

Early at one point, I think the terrorist had come towards the multi-media hall where about 100 people are stuck inside but found the doors locked and moved away. Right now I am at the reception centre about 100 metere away from the main monument and the terrorists are holed up above us to the right somewhere. The heavy exchange of fire is still going on.

What news do you have? I am pained to know that women and children have also died.

The problem is none of us can move out now and there are no provisions here. We may have to wait till day-break. I think, the firing has stopped now. Either the terrorists are changing their positions or they have halted firing for now."
 


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