Security has been intensified in Mathura, particularly around the Shahi Eidgah, as the nation observes the 32nd anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition.
Arvind Kumar, Mathura City Superintendent of Police, stated that the area has been divided into four zones with barricades set up at sensitive locations. Additionally, traffic diversions have been implemented to ensure safety. Kumar emphasized that strict action would be taken against individuals disobeying these rules.
“We have divided the area into 4 zones. Barricading has been done at the sensitive spots. The traffic has been diverted. Action will be taken against those who will not follow the rules,” Kumar told reporters.
Supreme Court Developments
In related legal proceedings, a bench comprising Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar deferred the hearing of disputes involving Mathura’s Krishna Janmabhoomi and Shahi Masjid. Among the cases is an appeal by the Committee of Management Trust Shahi Masjid Idgah challenging an Allahabad High Court ruling. The High Court had dismissed the mosque committee’s challenge to the maintainability of multiple lawsuits filed by Hindu devotees claiming rights over the Shahi Masjid Eidgah.
Over 15 suits have been initiated, with plaintiffs asserting that the mosque site overlaps with the birthplace of Lord Shri Krishna (Krishna Janmabhoomi).
Heightened Security in Ujjain
Similar security measures were implemented in Madhya Pradesh’s Ujjain district on Thursday. Local authorities conducted extensive checks at various locations to prevent any untoward incidents.
The Bomb Squad and Dog Squad inspected the railway station, while city police, Railway Protection Force (RPF), and Government Railway Police (GRP) searched vehicles, parcels, and passengers’ luggage.
RPF Deputy Superintendent of Police Mukesh Anandkar said, “In view of December 6 and as part of the vigilance campaign, the city police, RPF, and GRP together conducted thorough checks at various locations, including vehicle inspections in the circulatory area, parcel inspections at the parcel office, and luggage checks of passengers in the city.”
The vigilance campaign will continue to ensure public safety, Anandkar added.
Historical Context
The Babri Masjid in Ayodhya was demolished on December 6, 1992, by a large group of kar sevaks. The incident led to widespread violence, including attacks on Muslim residences in Ayodhya and riots in various parts of India, resulting in over 1,000 fatalities.