Setting the stage for a confrontation with the Uttar Pradesh government, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) inaugurated its controversial 'Chaurasi Kosi Parikrama' from Ayodhya on Sunday, amidst a massive crackdown launched by the administration, in which over 350 people, including VHP President Ashok Singhal and senior party leader Praveen Togadia have been arrested.
Former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Ram Vilas Vedanti and sitting MLA Ram Chandra Yadav have also been detained.
Togadia was arrested when he defied prohibitory orders in Ayodhya and attempted to conduct prayers on the banks of the Saryu river, after the Uttar Pradesh government had banned the yatra, while Singhal was detained at the Lucknow airport.
Reports state that a curfew-like situation is prevailing in the town as shops have been shut and Naya Ghat area has been cordoned off.
The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court on Saturday dismissed a plea for allowing 84-Kosi parikrama yatra, stating that there is a possibility of tension, and added that the restriction will be maintained.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad has vowed to kick off its 'Chaurasi Kosi Parikrama' around Ayodhya to revive its demand for a Ram temple.
The Samajwadi Party Government has banned the proposed Yatra, as a preemptive measure against communal flare-up, and put in place elaborate security arrangements by rushing in 10 companies of the Rapid Action Force (RSF) and 12 companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC).
