Fear strikes: People staying near disputed Ayodhya site start fleeing

With little less 48 hours left for the Ayodhya verdict, tension was mounting in the temple town on Wednesday.

People residing near the disputed site had started moving out for fear of 1992-like violence after demolition of the controversial structure by Hindu fundamentalists. This, despite several pleas by religions and other leaders to stay back and not panic.

Akhtar Ali, the mukhiya (chief) of the Muslim-dominated Sutahiti Mahalla near the disputed site, admitted his failure in convincing people of his locality to stay put without fear.

“Right now, there is absolute harmony between Muslims and Hindus here. But experiences of some of them have been so traumatic that persuasion is having no effect on them. Those with young daughters are more afraid,” he said.

Mohammad Irfan alias Nanha Mian said flower garlands prepared by Muslims of the locality were vastly used in different places of worship of Hindus, including the Ramlala temple.

“There is such harmony. The heavy presence of security personnel is adding to the sense of security. But some are haunted by memories. Had there been similar security arrangements in 1992, the tragedy [demolition of disputed structure] would not have occurred,” he said.

Parvin Begum broke down as she left for her aunt’s place in Faizabad with two young daughters. “Who wants to leave his or her own place? But I cannot risk the life and future of my daughters. I hope everything is peaceful after the verdict and we can come back quickly,” she said before entering a three-wheeler.