A heavy security blanket was thrown over the holy city of Ayodhya on Wednesday, marking the 33rd anniversary of the demolition of the Babri Masjid. Authorities ensured a complete clampdown on any form of organised political or religious mobilisation, leading to a tense but peaceful day in the Uttar Pradesh town.
Unprecedented Security Measures Enforced
Security forces across Ayodhya and other parts of Uttar Pradesh remained on the highest state of alert. A key focus was on thorough vehicle checks conducted on all major and minor routes leading into the city. Superintendent of Police (City) Chakrapani Tripathi confirmed the intense preparations, stating that December 6 is perennially a sensitive date for Ayodhya, and the administration's primary goal was to prevent any breach of peace or security.
The police implemented a multi-layered security strategy. Strict directives were issued prohibiting any form of public gathering, meeting, or rally. In a move to monitor movement closely, hotels and guest houses were instructed to maintain detailed records of all their visitors. The security dragnet extended to critical transport hubs as well.
Bomb Squads and Dog Teams Deployed
To leave nothing to chance, specialised units were pressed into action. Bomb disposal squads and sniffer dog teams carried out extensive checks at the Ayodhya railway station's parking areas and other sensitive locations. These operations were conducted in close coordination with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and the Government Railway Police (GRP).
The visible and stringent security presence was a stark departure from the mobilisations seen in previous years. The absence of organised groups marking the day was a direct result of the pre-emptive measures taken by the district administration.
Official Ban on 'Black Day' or 'Victory Day' Observations
The reason for the subdued atmosphere was an official ban on any commemorative events. Social activist Indu Bhushan Pandey from Ayodhya explained the situation, noting that the government had prohibited the observance of either 'Black Day' or 'Victory Day' (Shaurya Diwas) following the final verdict in the long-standing dispute. This legal resolution has fundamentally altered the way the anniversary is approached by both authorities and the public.
The comprehensive security plan and the ban on gatherings successfully ensured that the day passed without any major incident, underscoring the administration's focus on maintaining law and order above all else on this historically significant date.
