More than 200 arrested in clashes between Muslims and Hindus in India

More than 200 have been arrested after violence erupted between Hindus and Muslims in the Indian state of Gujarat.

According to reports, the clashes began in the city of Vadodara after a distorted image offended Muslims on social media. The state authorities responded by blocking mobile Internet and text messaging to prevent further escalation of the conflict.

After several days of violence, during which the two sides threw stones at each other and one person was stabbed, the police have arrested more than 200 people from both communities.

According to an Indian official, the man guilty of starting the riots, was a teacher who posted a controversial message on WhatsApp. He has since been arrested.

Gujarat is mostly populated by Hindus, while Muslims constitute a minority. In 2002, over 1,000 people, mostly Muslims, were killed during religious riots.