Nation-wide 'chakka jam' tomorrow to protest Ram Setu demolition

New Delhi, Sep 11 (UNI) Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) general secretary Pravin Togadia will lead the nation-wide road blockade tomorrow to mount pressure on the government over its proposed demolition of the 'Ram Setu', off Tamil Nadu shores, to make passage for a waterway.

The three-hour (0800-1100 hrs) 'chakka jam' would cover all highways and main bridges ('setus') across the country and no traffic would be permitted on them, veteran VHP leader Giriraj Kishore told mediapersons.

''We have been forced to take this step to highlight the issue of demolishing the Ram Setu, as our repeated requests and pleas to the government have failed to make any headway.'' However, all medical and life-saving services have been exempted from the 'chakka jam', he said, adding that participants have been cautioned against harming national property.

Volunteers from various organisations have been roped in to make the 'road blockade' a success as the issue concerns our cultural heritage and above all our faith and belief, he said.

'Despite 35 lakh signatures submitted to the government, repeated pleas by saints and adverse reports by eminent scientists against destroying the 'Ram Setu', the government has chosen to adopt an anti-people stand that hurts Hindu sentiments and wipes out a marvellous heritage symbol.'' If the government was open to accomodate the wishes of 'jehadis' and naxals, why can't it respect the will and wish of the country's majority? he queried, adding that tomorrow's move was a mere eye-opener.

''If the government continued with its repressive policy, we will continue with our agitation in various forms and compel it to respect the people's faith.'' Mr Togadia would lead the 'chakka jam' in Delhi, where blockades' would be carried out at 18 places, he added.

UNI