60 Sena activists held, Muslims observe 'black day'

Varanasi, Dec 6 (UNI) More than 60 Shiv Sena activists trying to take out processions to mark the 14th anniversary of the Ayodhya demolition were arrested from two separate places here today.

Police here said more than 60 Shiv Sena activists -- trying to observe 'Shaurya Diwas' by taking out victory processions -- were arrested from Mehmoorganj and Chowk locality.

The arrested leaders included Gulshan Kapoor and Shiv Seth, district and city Shiv Sena presidents respectively. They were, however, set free in the evening, police added.

Meanwhile, the Muslims in the holy city observed 'Yaume Shahadat' by wearing black bands to work. The traders hailing from the minority community downed their shutters as a mark of protest against the demolition of the disputed structure at Ayodhya 14 years ago.

Elaborate security arrangements had been made across the city to deal with any eventuality, especially on the highly sensitive Gyanwapi-Kashi Vishwanath complex.

UNI ARS ATI MSJ DB2026