Delhi violence: India's PM Modi calls for calm as toll surges in capital

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for calm on Wednesday after Delhi's worst sectarian violence in decades left at least 27 people dead and prompted demands for a military curfew.

Peace and harmony are central to our ethos. I appeal to my sisters and brothers of Delhi to maintain peace and brotherhood at all times. It is important that there is calm and normalcy is restored at the earliest.

- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2020

"I appeal to my sisters and brothers of Delhi to maintain peace and brotherhood at all times. It is important... calm and normalcy is restored at the earliest," Modi tweeted.

Had an extensive review on the situation prevailing in various parts of Delhi. Police and other agencies are working on the ground to ensure peace and normalcy.

- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2020

This week's battles between Hindus and Muslims have seen mobs armed with swords, guns and acid raze parts of a northeastern district of the Indian capital. The clashes, which also left more than 200 injured, were triggered by protests against a citizenship law.