Security beefed up for Babri Masjid demolition anniversary

NEW DELHI, DEC. 5. Security around the country, particularly in Uttar Pradesh and other communally-sensitive States, has been beefed up with heavy deployment of police and para-military forces in view of the eighth anniversary of the demolition of Babri Masjid tomorrow.

The Union Home Ministry has instructed all States and Union Territories to take necessary security measures and heighten vigil in vulnerable areas.

In Uttar Pradesh, the PAC and police have been deployed in adequate strength in the twin cities of Ayodhya and Faizabad following the decision of some Hindu and Muslim organisations to observe the day as ``victory day'' and ``black day'' respectively.

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad has announced holding of a special function at Kar Sewak Puram to mark the day. It is expected to be attended by the VHP president, Mr. Ashok Singhal.

The U.P. Government has also taken strict security measures in Varanasi and Mathura.

In Delhi, the Joint Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ajay Chadha, said patrolling has been intensified in trouble-prone areas.

Police and Rapid Action Force personnel have been posted at sensitive places of worship in-and-around Hyderabad. The Police Commissioner, Mr. S.R. Sukumara, said mobile patrol parties would intercept vehicles and persons in case of suspicion.

In Gujarat, the Minister of State for Home, Mr. Haren Pandya, said a general alert has been sounded in the State to maintain law and order.

Over 10,00O police personnel will be deployed in Chennai. The Police Commissioner, Mr. P. Kalimuthu, said police are taking no chances as three years ago the day was marred by explosions on three trains that left Chennai.

In Maharashtra, police have stepped up surveillance in areas vulnerable to militant attacks. ``We have taken into consideration the recent arrest of members belonging to a terrorist group and have made adequate arrangements to tackle any contingencies,'' police headquarters said.

In Calcutta, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. N.C. Ghosh said additional deployment would be made in all sensitive pockets in the metropolis with the RAF and mobile police units making frequent rounds.

Security has been tightened at the famous Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala in Kerala in the wake of a 12-hour strike called by People's democratic Party tomorrow.

- PTI

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