In volatile Gujarat state, still tense from Hindu-Muslim violence last year that killed more than 1,000 people, the most innocuous incident can spark tragedy. In the town of Viramgam, about 35 miles west of Ahmedabad, three Muslims were killed and at least 37 injured recently when a cricket ball hit by a Muslim youth flew into a Hindu temple and struck a deity. Muslim and Hindu cricket players first argued about it, then began throwing rocks and the brawl turned into a riot, with arson and looting of shops. Police quelled the disturbance with live rounds and tear gas. Distrust is rampant between the communities and similar unrest has occurred with equally minimal provocation elsewhere in the state. Remain alert and be prepared to leave the scene at the earliest sign of trouble.
