Ranchi, Nov 26 : A twelve-hour shutdown called by major political parties brought normal life to a standstill in Ranchi on Monday.

Political parties and pro-tribal organisations are protesting against the killing of tribals in Guwahati on Saturday.

"We are protesting against the violence that took place in Assam and we condemn the way in which the tribals are being treated. This might be the first time in the history of India that such an inhumane and unethical act is being carried out," said Chamra Linda, President, Adivasi (Tribals) Students Association (ASA).

The protestors warned that that they might resort to violent means if necessary action is not taken to stop the ensuing violence after the clash between the tribals and locals in Assam.

Though authorities maintain that the call for the shutdown is peaceful, reports say of many shops having been destroyed and vehicles damaged.

"Nobody is being forced to take part in the protest but people are willingly coming forward. While it is basically a peaceful shutdown, a few untoward incidents might take place; there will always be some miscreants to create some chaos," said Avinash Kumar, Deputy Commissioner.

Fierce violence broke out on Saturday in Guwahati, between tribal demonstrators and local residents, during tribals protest march towards the State Assembly to demand Scheduled Tribes status.

Curfew has now been relaxed, which was earlier imposed in areas between Dispur and Bashistha.

The protestors blamed the Assam state government for the violence. (ANI)