Ayodhya verdict paves the way for Ram temple, says RSS chief

The RSS today said the Allahabad high court verdict on Ayodhya title suit has paved the way for construction of a Ram temple on the disputed site even as it appealed for restraint and said the order should not be seen as anybody's victory or defeat.

In a statement after the verdict came out, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said, "The movement for Ram temple is not a reactionary one, nor is it against any particular community".

"Hence this verdict, that facilitates building of a magnificent temple for Maryada Purushottam Ram, should not be seen by the society as a victory to any group or defeat to the other," he said adding "our joy and happiness should find expression in a controlled, peaceful manner".

Appealing for restraint, Bhagwat said, "this is an excellent opportunity to rise above all past bitterness in the spirit of our tolerant and inclusive national culture and strive to organise our diverse, multi-lingual and multi-religious society into a united, disciplined and conflict-free one inspired by a grand and sacred vision".

When asked about the one-third land to be given to Muslims, he said, "It is a matter of detail, the high-powered (sants') committee will take a decision on that. We don't yet have the copy of the orders. Once it is with us, we will carry out a detailed analysis".

Seeking the cooperation of all groups, including Muslims, in building the temple, he said, "...I take this opportunity to heartily and affectionately call upon all our countrymen, including the Muslims, to forget all the ill-will and hard feelings borne out of the conflicts of the past decades and welcome the verdict of the judiciary.

"...thus becoming active collaborators in organising necessary constitutional and practical means for building the magnificent temple".

Asked what would be BJP's reaction to the verdict, Bhagwat said the party will speak on the issue separately.

On whether there would be another movement for building a temple, he said that would be decided by the high-powered committee and RSS would support it.