A day after a meeting of leaders of major political parties, Mr Vajpayee said the gruesome killings of people in Godhra, Ahmedabad and other places in Gujarat has left a “blot on the nation’s image’’ which has damaged India’s reputation before the international community.

He said incidents of persons including women and children being torched alive in some parts of the country cast a stigma and will hurt the prestige of the nation all over the world.

In an appeal to the people over Doordarshan, the Prime Minister said he was confident that the way the country had overcome crises in the past, it would be able to do so this time also to create an atmosphere of peace and harmony.

Recalling the appeal made by leaders of major political parties last night, Mr Vajpayee said he was sure that people belonging to all religions would consider the plea and help the authorities to create communal harmony.

“There are times when the country is put to test. The violence in Gujarat has created such a condition,” he said adding that whatever may be the provocation, people should exercise restraint and ensure peace.