Tight security in Ayodhya and Faizabad ahead of Babri Masjid anniversary

Security in Ayodhya was tightened with the deployment of 10 extra companies of paramilitary forces.

The district administration has put the twin cities of Faizabad and Ayodhya on high alert for the 24th anniversary of the demolition of the Babri Masjid on Tuesday.

Birds fly at sunset over a Hindu temple on the 20th anniversary of the Babri mosque demolition in Ayodhya. (Representative Image)

Security in Ayodhya was tightened with the deployment of 10 extra companies of paramilitary forces.

Faizabad district magistrate Vivek Kumar and senior superintendent of police Anant Dev jointly monitored the security arrangements. Vigil was also tightened in the nearby towns of Rudauli and Bhadarsa.

The administration has advised people to pay no heed to rumours, especially on social media.

Faizabad district magistrate Vivek Kumar told HT that section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which prohibits the assembly of five or more people, was in force in the cities.

Police were searching hotels, lodges, guest houses, bus stations, railway stations and other public places, he said.

Temples in Ayodhya and Faizabad have been asked to maintain a visitors’ register and record the name of every outstation pilgrim. Police are also keeping a close watch on anti-social elements in both cities, he added.