The Muslim community in the temple town decides not to observe ‘Black Day’ like previous years

Arshad Afzaal Khan

AYODHYA – The security forces in Ayodhya have been put on high alert in view of the 30th anniversary of the demolition of Babri mosque. The administration has established a special control room in the district magistrate office to keep vigil on any development on December 6.

The Ayodhya temple town and the district has been divided into multiple security zones and forces have been deployed at sensitive points. All the magistrates have been instructed to keep round the clock vigil on all minor and major developments in the twin towns of Ayodhya and Faizabad.

The Muslim community in Ayodhya, that used to observe ‘Black Day’ on every anniversary of the demolition of the mosque, has decided not to do so this time.

Haji Asad Ahmad, a Muslim leader and Ayodhya corporator, said, “now after the Ayodhya verdict that has given the Babri Masjid land for Ram temple, we wish to create an atmosphere of harmony and brotherhood with our Hindu brothers and sisters, so we decided not to hold any such programme this time, but, there will be recitation of holy Quran in all mosques of Ayodhya and Faizabad and we will pray to the Almighty for peace and brotherhood.”

Meanwhile, the Ayodhya Police are carrying out regular mock drills in the temple town, and the special armed squads are doing security drills to plug every loophole in the security system.

Talking to IANS, Ayodhya SSP Shailesh Pandey said, “We are alert for any kind of security emergencies on any day and we conduct security drills from time to time to keep our forces alert. However, we are extraordinarily vigilant keeping in view December 6.”