Security tightened ahead of Babri mosque demolition anniversary

Ayodhya (UP), Dec 5 : Security has been beefed up in Ayodhya ahead of the 16th anniversary of the demolition of the Babri mosque.

Special security has been provided at all the railway stations, bus stations, markets and other crowded places. The government has issued instructions to all districts of the State for stepping up their security measures and intensifying police patrolling.

"Security has been beefed up to avoid any untoward incident on the anniversary of the mosque demolition," said Sharad Chandra Pandey, Circle Officer, Ayodhya.

"We want to ensure that December 6 passes off peacefully. Keeping this is mind we have made strict security arrangements," he added.

The demolition of the 16th century mosque in Ayodhya on December 6, 1992, had triggered nationwide communal frenzy that took a heavy toll of human lives.

Hindus say the mosque was built by Mughal emperor Babar after destroying a temple at the birthplace of Lord Ram. Muslims dispute this claim and want the Babri mosque rebuilt.

The dispute has dragged on for years in courts, which have banned any construction on the land until the issue is settled.

ANI