A young man from Jammu and Kashmir was taken into custody by security forces at the revered Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya on Sunday. The incident occurred after he allegedly attempted to offer Islamic prayers, or namaz, within the temple premises, triggering an immediate security response.
Details of the Temple Incident
The individual has been identified as Momin from the Pulwama district of south Kashmir. According to police reports, the event unfolded on the afternoon of March 24, 2024. Momin was observed by temple security and devotees attempting to perform namaz inside the main temple area. Given the temple's high-security status and the sensitive nature of the act, he was swiftly apprehended by the on-duty security personnel.
Following his detention, he was handed over to the local Ayodhya police. Authorities have registered a case against him under relevant sections of the law. Initial inquiries suggest the man had traveled to Ayodhya from Kashmir specifically for this purpose.
Family's Response and Mental Health Claim
In a significant turn of events, the detained man's family has come forward with a claim that challenges the narrative of intentional provocation. Speaking from their home in Pulwama, family members stated that Momin has a history of mental illness.
They asserted that he was not in a sound state of mind at the time of the incident and had been undergoing treatment for his condition. The family expressed distress over the event, emphasizing that his actions were likely a result of his mental health challenges rather than any deliberate attempt to desecrate or disrupt the sanctity of the temple.
Police Investigation and Broader Implications
The Ayodhya police have confirmed the detention and the filing of the case. They are now investigating all angles, including the claims made by the family regarding his mental health. Investigators are likely to verify medical history and treatment records as part of their probe to establish intent and responsibility.
This incident highlights the intense and layered security apparatus surrounding the Ram Mandir, a site of profound religious significance and historical sensitivity. It also brings to the fore the complex interplay between security concerns, individual actions, and mental health considerations in highly charged religious spaces.
The event has drawn attention from various quarters, with discussions focusing on both the imperative of maintaining religious harmony and the protocols for handling such sensitive situations. The police's final investigation report will be crucial in determining the future course of action.
