Ayodhya issue: Religious and political leaders appeal for peace

Religious heads and leaders of all political parties on Wednesday assured full support to the state government, to maintain law and order in view of the Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi verdict, which is expected to be delivered on Friday. In an appeal to the people, they urged them to maintain peace and harmony after the verdict is out.

Chief minister BS Yeddyurappa held separate meetings with religious heads and leaders of various political parties, including the Congress and JD(S) in this regard.

During the meetings, Yeddyurappa appealed to them to actively involve themselves in maintaining peace. The religious heads assured the chief minister that they will join hands with the government in its effort.

Vishvesha Tirtha Swamiji of Sri Pejavar Mutt said, “The court verdict should be acceptable to all. Indian citizens are peace loving and have faith in the judiciary. Do not get emotional. It is not appropriate to celebrate or protest the verdict. I request all to maintain peace.”

“God is one and all religions take us to Him. It is essential to have mutual trust and love. Let us maintain tranquillity,” said Swamy Harshananda of Sri Ramakrishna Mutt.

Sri Balagangadharanatha Swamiji of Sri Adichunchanagiri Mutt said, “India is the country which propagated peace. We have unity in diversity. It is our duty to ensure no one suffers and there is no damage to property.”

“The litigation is between two brothers. Whatever is the verdict, we should take it in our stride. The aggrieved can approach the Supreme Court. We will make an announcement in the mosques, appealing for peace,” said Maulana Qadir Ahmed Shah, a Muslim leader.

At an all-party meeting held at the Vidhana Soudha, Opposition leader Siddaramiah, Congress leaders RV Deshpande and C Motamma, JD(S) leader MC Nanaiah and CPI(M) leader GN Nagaraj assured the chief minister to extend full support to the government. They also appealed to the people to maintain peace.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Siddaramaiah said, “We appreciate the measures taken by the state government to maintain law and order. We have suggested to the chief minister to depute additional police force in sensitive areas,” he added.

Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president, RV Deshpande said, “We hope that people maintain peace in the state. We are giving full support to the government. We have suggested the ban of processions, public functions and burning of crackers. We have also suggested the arrest of anti-social elements as a precautionary measure, and keep central forces on the stand-by,” he said.