The Naroda Massacre

Pieces Of the Image

9 September 2012, Somewhere in Naroda

On a dark evening, a tall teenager, dressed in a slim-fit light blue oxford shirt, a neutral-colored bomber jacket, and slim-fit dark denim jeans, comes running up the stairs and bursts into his house, The room is brightly lit by a white fluorescent light. Four people–two women and two men–on the sofa, all looking very anxious. The boy's tension eased when he saw his family and his friend's family sitting together on the couch.

A middle-aged woman in a red saree steps forward, tears streaming down her face. "Oh, my son, thank God," she cries, planting a tender kiss on the teenager's forehead. She then asks. "Where's Divyesh?" The teenager, still catching his breath, replies, "We didn't knew you all were here, so he ran to his house. Don't worry, he'll come back once he finds his house locked."

Just a few seconds later, another teenager emerged from the back, wearing a graphic tee with witty Japanese slogan and skinny khaki chinos. The room instantly filled with joy, and the woman in the red saree began to pray.

Coorg, Karnataka

In a wooden house nestled between coffee farms, a middle-aged woman sat watching the news of the Naroda massacre, her face etched with sorrow. A middle-aged man with a mustache, dressed in a blue three-piece suit, appeared in the doorway. The woman stood up, her voice trembling "Darling, look at this misery-" She glanced at his outfit and asked, "Where are you off to?"

"I'm going to work," he replied

"But you just retired. Why are you going again?" she questioned, anxiety creeping into her voice

An emergency case just came up that needs me," he interrupted

"Don't tell me you're going to N-," she began, her voice breaking.

"Yes" he confirmed, "I've received an email from the office of the Defense Minister of India. The government has gathered a group of the best detectives and intelligence officers to solve the case, so I'm taking the first flight out. I have to go... you understand."

As he started moving forward, she called out, "Wait, Vikram! How long will you torment yourself like this? You don't even know what you might find there. Where are you going with all this?"

"If I could stay away, I would," Vikram replied, a pained look in his eyes. With that he disappeared into the overcast clouds, leaving her standing there, etched on her face.

Delhi, India

In a bustling police station, a young man with a beard, clad in a black denim jacket, plain white T-shirt, and black trousers, stood at the center of attention. Surrounding him were police officers in uniform, all focused on an enlarged map of Delhi spread out on the table. The man, exuding authority, pointed to a specific spot on the map.

"This area, against all odds, is perfect for smuggling," he declared. "They will surely be here. Some locals might even be involved. Until now, our next—"

Suddenly, his official phone buzzed loudly, interrupting him. Glancing at the screen, his eyes widened in shock.

"Sorry, guys, it's urgent," he said, his voice tense.

"Sure, sir," the officers replied in unison.

He quickly opened the email, seeing it was from the office of the Defense Minister. His expression turned grave as he read, the weight of the situation settling over him.

[The Email]:

Subject: Urgent Coordination Required: Special Task Force Formation for Recent Incident Investigation

Dear Esteemed Colleagues,

I hope this message finds you well amidst these challenging times. As you are undoubtedly aware, In the Naroda region of Ahmedabad, Gujarat 6000 people mysteriously lost their lives this demands our immediate attention and concerted efforts. In light of the recent tragic incidents, it has become imperative that we mobilize a specialized task force comprised of our nation's finest detectives, police heads, and intelligence members.

The purpose of this communication is to formally invite you to join this elite task force, which has been provisionally named the "Provisional Agency for the Naroda Massacre" (PANM). Your expertise, experience, and dedication to justice have not gone unnoticed, and it is our firm belief that your involvement is crucial for the successful resolution of these cases.

Key Objectives:

1. Comprehensive Investigation: To conduct a thorough and wide-reaching investigation into the incidents, uncovering all pertinent facts and evidence.

2. Inter-agency Collaboration: To facilitate seamless cooperation and information sharing between various law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

3. Public Safety and Reassurance: To implement measures that ensure the safety of the public and restore confidence in our ability to protect and serve.

Expectations and Next Steps:

- Immediate Response: Please confirm your participation at your earliest convenience. We aim to convene the first meeting of the PANM within the next 48 hours.

- Initial Briefing: An initial briefing session will be scheduled upon the formation of the task force, where detailed information regarding the incidents will be shared, and investigative roles and responsibilities will be assigned.

- Resource Allocation: The government is committed to providing all necessary resources for this investigation, including access to advanced forensic technologies, intelligence databases, and logistical support.

We understand the weight of the responsibility being placed upon your shoulders and wish to extend our utmost gratitude in advance for your service. These are difficult times, but we have the utmost confidence in your abilities and believe that together, we can navigate this crisis and bring those responsible to justice.

Please reply to this email with your acceptance and availability for the initial briefing session. Further details, including the location and agenda of the meeting, will be shared upon your confirmation.

Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter and your continued dedication to the safety and security of our nation.

Sincerely,

[Ajit Mehta]

[Defense Minister of India]

[Department of Defense]

[23012286]

---

After reading the email, the man hurried to the DGP's office. He opened the door briskly and said, "Sorry to interrupt, sir, but I've just received an email from the office of the Defense Minister. It's about the Naroda incident. I've been selected as a member of the task force, the Provisional Agency for the Naroda Massacre. I'll need you to reassign my ongoing cases."

The DGP listened intently, then responded with a proud smile, "This is an honor. You've always made us proud, Officer Karan. When do you leave?"

Karan replied, "On the next available flight, sir."

---

He boarded the flight, the sky overcast and heavy with clouds. As the plane ascended, Karan gazed out of the window, deep in thought about the case. He knew this wasn't an ordinary investigation; it was fraught with complexities and far-reaching consequences. Lost in contemplation, he murmured to himself, "This path is shrouded in uncertainty. Who knows where it will take me?" With that, he slowly drifted into a restless sleep, the weight of the task ahead lingering in his mind.