UP: On Babri Masjid demolition anniversary, security tightened in Ayodhya
On the 26th anniversary of Babri Masjid demolition, security has been tightened in Ayodhya and police have made preventive arrests to contain protests. In the temple town of Uttar Pradesh, despite the security personnel dotting the roads and bylanes, business went on as usual. Pilgrims moved in and out of Hanumangarhi area as normal and eateries stayed open. Here's more on this.
What happened: On December 6, 1992, Babri Masjid was demolished
To recall, hundreds of kar sevaks razed the 16th-century mosque on December 6, 1992, sparking riots in the state and all over the country. The Hindu right-wing groups claimed the mosque was built after demolishing the temple of Lord Rama. It is believed Lord Rama took human form at the same temple. The demolition snowballed into a political controversy, and even after decades, it is still unresolved.
Separately, Hindu and Muslim bodies have announced events
The day will be celebrated as Shaurya Diwas and Vijay Diwas by Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal. The right-wing groups have asked people to light earthen diyas in their homes. Meanwhile, Yaum E Gham (day of sorrow) and Yaum E Syah (black day) will be observed by Muslim outfits. Over 2,500 police personnel, besides Rapid Action Force and paramilitary CRPF, have been deployed.
Kar sewaks who died will be remembered: VHP spokesperson
About the events organized, VHP spokesperson in Ayodhya, Sharad Sharma, said, "Tributes will also be paid to the innocent kar sewaks who faced bullets and lost their lives." Nirmohi Akhada's Mahant Ramdas said the day will be celebrated as Diwali. Meanwhile, Afaq Ahmad Khan, Chairman of Babri Masjid Action Committee said they have been waiting for justice for the last 26 years.
Recently, Shiv Sena chief visited Ayodhya, VHP organized dharma sabha
While it is customary for both sides to announce such events, security has been given more attention this time after VHP organized a dharma sabha on November 25. Notably, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray had also visited Ayodhya, last month in an attempt to exert pressure on the ruling BJP to take steps for temple construction.
The case has been listed for January'19 by Supreme Court
In 2010, the Allahabad High Court divided the 2.77 acres land into three equal parts, one part going each to Ram Lalla, the mosque and Nirmohi Akhada. But none of the sides were happy with the verdict and approached the top court. Recently, Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi listed the matter for January 2019, meaning dates of the hearing will be fixed next year.
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