Several communal incidents have flared in the city and the state of late, with state Home Minister Dilip Walse Patil warning people not to fall into the trap.

This paper has repeatedly asked people to use their judgment and discretion when it comes to politicians issuing statements to rabble rouse and create fissures in society. This happens just as decisions are taken about festivals. During the Covid-19 lockdown or slowdown as permissions to unlock or celebrate were taken in phases and changed as the situation was fluid, there were attempts to pit communities against each other. Politicians across the board, local leaders gave statements that claimed somebody or the other was being favoured and so-and-so community was being targeted. At that time, this paper had advised that it is wiser to look at the larger picture and use logic, as we battle Coronavirus.