The much-awaited Ayodhya title suit verdict is out and the day passed off peacefully with no untoward incident reported from across the state. However, the next twenty-four hours could be crucial for the Uttar Pradesh police.
Massive security arrangements had been made and the police top brass is keeping a close watch on the situation. Several places had been declared sensitive and special squads have been put on high alert. Religious leaders of both communities have urged people to respect the court decision and maintain peace.
The verdict was pronounced around 16:30 hrs by a three-judge Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court, comprising Justices Dharam Veer Sharma, S U Khan and Sudhir Agarwal.
The court premises had been turned into a fortress and even scribes were restricted to a makeshift tent 200 metre away from the high court. All thoroughfares leading to the court had been barricaded. Entry to the courtroom, where the verdict in the over 60-year-old case was pronounced, was restricted to the plaintiffs and their counsels.
Most schools and educational institutions remained open, but shops and business establishments downed their shutters as the verdict time approached.
All India Babri Masjid Action Committee (AIBMAC) convener and Board counsel Zafaryab Jilani said the Board will move the Supreme Court in due course. UP Chief Minister Mayawati urged people to maintain communal harmony.
