Mediation in Ayodhya title dispute: Taking the most suitable course ahead

The parties concerned must approach the mediation with open hearts and find a solution that leads to lasting peace

The appropriation of history is a continual process in any society. However, in a multi-religious society like India, appropriations drawing exclusively on communal identities engender endless conflicts. The appropriation of history with regard to the Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi dispute has been at the core of a violent political movement — one which has claimed the lives of many Indian citizens.

On Friday, the Supreme Court of India ordered the parties in the Ayodhya title dispute to go for in-camera mediation. The court also appointed a panel of mediators headed by a former Justice of the Supreme Court. The court’s decision to