17 arrests on Ayodhya anniv

Indore, Dec 6 (UNI) Seventeen workers, owing allegiance to pro-Hindu organisations, were arrested here today for attempting to take out a Ram Shila Rathyatra sans permission on the 15th anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition at Ayodhya.

''Prohibitory orders are in force in the entire district due to the Sanver assembly bypoll,'' said Superintendent of Police Anshuman Yadav.

The Ram Sethu Raksha Manch announced the Rathyatra and envisaged worship in every house. The workers clashed with police at the Military Headquarters Of War crossing. Police exercised mild force to disperse the mob that indulged in stonepelting. 14 workers were arrested and the rest at another location.

The Dharm Raksha Samiti accused the police of excesses and threatened to take out Shaurya Yatras from various places to the Rajwada this evening. An additional police force was stationed here in view of the demolition anniversary.

UNI