Kashmir man detained in Ayodhya after trying to offer namaz inside Ram Temple complex, family says 'mentally ill'

Sheikh, 55, allegedly entered the heavily secured premises of the temple on Friday and prepared to offer namaz near Sita Rasoi area.

Updated on: Jan 10, 2026, 20:24:37 IST

By HT News Desk

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A man from Jammu and Kashmir has been detained after he allegedly tried to offer namaz inside the Ram Mandir complex in Ayodhya. The UP authorities said the man has been identified as Ahad Sheikh, a resident of Shopian in Jammu and Kashmir.

People attend the 'Dhwajarohan' ceremony at the Ram Temple, in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. (X/@NarendraModi)

Sheikh, 55, allegedly entered the heavily secured premises of the temple on Friday and later sat near the Sita Rasoi area, preparing to offer namaz near the Sita Rasoi area, according to Superintendent of Police (Security) Balramchari Dubey.

While he was “preparing to offer namaz”, several onlookers and security officials intervened and he was handed to the police. He also allegedly raised some slogans inside the temple complex when the security forces intervened, the official said.

Also Read: Non-vegetarian food banned from being served in hotels, restaurants in Ayodhya Dham

His family said Sheikh has been mentally ill and showed shared medical records from the psychiatry department of Srinagar Medical College as evidence.

"We didn't know anything about it. He is totally unsound," Sheikh's son, Imran, told PTI at their residence in Shopian.

Kashmir man was ‘headed for Ajmer’

The UP police are investigating the circumstances, and questioning the man to ascertain the details.

Officials are also examining his travel history, motive behind visit to Ayodhya, and whether any other individuals are connected to the incident.

Also Read: Ayodhya on high alert ahead of New Year; drones and CCTV deployed

During preliminary searches, food items like cashews and raisins were found in his possession. Sheikh told investigators that he was travelling to Ajmer. It remains unclear how he reached Ayodhya.

Meanwhile, the security officials and intelligence agencies are reviewing how the man entered the premises of the grand temple despite the heightened security measures.

There has been no official word from the Ayodhya district and UP state administrations on the incident.

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HT News Desk
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