The holy city of Ayodhya was transformed into a virtual fortress on Friday as authorities tightened security on the 32nd anniversary of the Babri mosque demolition. Police deployed drones for surveillance, patrolled the Saryu River in boats, and conducted multiple flag marches to ensure peace.
This year’s anniversary held special significance as it was the first since the consecration of the Ram temple earlier this year. Security measures were heightened following an alleged threat from pro-Khalistan leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun to attack the temple.
"ATS commandos, PAC, and CRPF personnel conducted flag marches on the streets to ensure no issues would arise. We have been checking vehicles and suspicious individuals to ensure the safety of pilgrims and maintain overall security," Superintendent of Police (Security) Balachari Dubey said.
Police set up checkpoints at all city entry points, restricting access to the Ram temple vicinity. Officers monitored vehicles and scrutinised railway stations, dharamshalas, and hotels for suspicious activity.
"We have been asked to monitor the railway station, dharamshalas, and hotels. The security forces are also cautious, considering the threat posed by Khalistani leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun," a local intelligence officer said. Last month, Pannun, the founder of the banned group Sikhs for Justice, purportedly warned of bloodshed at the temple in a video.
The Babri mosque was demolished on Dec. 6, 1992, by a mob of 'kar sevaks,' sparking communal tensions. While Muslims observed the day as Yaum-e-Gham and Hindus called it Shaurya Diwas in subsequent years, these practices ceased after the Supreme Court’s 2019 ruling favouring the construction of the Ram temple.
Acharya Satyendra Das, the chief priest of Ram Janmabhoomi, said both communities have respected the court’s verdict. "The demolition of the disputed structure led to the celebration of Shaurya Diwas by Hindus and Yaum-e-Gham by Muslims.
However, after the court's decision in favour of Ram Lalla, both sides respected the verdict and stopped the celebrations," he said.
Iqbal Ansari, a supporter of the Babri mosque side, agreed. "In Ayodhya, there is no longer any debate or dispute between Hindus and Muslims. There is peace now, and all religions, including Hinduism and Islam, are revered here," Ansari said.
The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has also integrated Shaurya Diwas with Lord Ram’s annual festival, said Sharad Sharma, the group’s provincial media in charge. "The celebration will take place on the Pratishtha Dwitiya of Paush, where we will incorporate Shaurya Diwas," he said.
Security around the Ram temple remains high, with daily checks conducted by Uttar Pradesh Police, ATS commandos, and CRPF personnel. "We are conducting surprise checks... This type of checking is done daily for security purposes. We remain vigilant, ensuring devotees are not inconvenienced," Dubey added.
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