Babri Masjid demolition anniversary passes off peacefully

The 20th anniversary of Babri Mosque demolition passed off peacefully on a sombre note in the twin towns of Ayodhya and Faizabad and the surrounding areas amidst tight security arrangements.

While shops and business establishments owned by Muslims remained partially closed and main markets wore a deserted look it being a weekly off day in Faizabad, black flags were seen at some of the mosques.

Crowds came out in the areas where weekly local markets are organised in view of the ongoing marriage season.

Official sources said that life remained normal with both the communities observing the day in their own ways separately ,although security forces remained on high alert at all the sensitive points in the twin town.

While Muslim organisations observe the day as "black day" , Hindu outfits observe it as "shaurya diwas".

Hindu groups led by VHP organised recital of 'Hanuman Chalisa" at the Kar Sewakpuram in the morning to reiterate their resolve for the construction of Ram Temple at the disputed site.

Force in large numbers were deployed at all the crossings to maintain round the clock vigil on the situation which was reported to be peaceful, district administration said.

Petitioner in the Babri Mosque demolition case, Hashim Ansari when contacted said that there is no animosity between the two communities.

"Politics is still being played in the name of Babri mosque case but the communities and the people want peace," Ansari said, adding that he had full faith in the judicial process and the matter now rests in the hands of the court.

In Lucknow, several Muslim organisations held a protest demonstration before the Vidhan Sabha demanding rebuilding of the mosque and punishment to those guilty of demolition.
The 16th century Babri Mosque was demolished by Hindu fundamentalists on this day in 1992.