20 Situation in Gujarat CHAPTER 3 3.1 The human rights situation in Gujarat, beginning with the tragedy that occurred in Godhra on 27 February 2002 and continuing with the violence that ensued subsequently, was of the deepest concern to the Commission as the year under review drew to a close. 3.2 The Commission took suo motu action on this matter on 1 March 2002, on the basis of media reports, both print and electronic. In addition, it had also received a request by e-mail, asking it to intervene. 3.3 In its Proceedings of 1March 2002, the Commission inter alia observed that the news items reported on a communal flare-up and, more disturbingly, suggested inaction by the police force and the highest functionaries in the State to deal with the situation. The Commission added: Tn view of the urgency of the matter, it would not be appropriate for this Commission to stay its hand till the veracity of these reports has been established; and it is necessary to proceed immediately assuming them to \ be prima facie correct. The situation therefore demands that the Commission take note of these facts and steps-in to prevent any negligence in the protection of human rights of the people of the State of Gujarat irrespective of their religion.' 3.4 Notice was accordingly issued on 1 March 2002 to the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, Gujarat, asking: NATIONAL HUMAN-RIGHTS COMMISSION