Babri Mosque demolition anniversary: Police lay siege to Ayodhya

A three-tier security cordon was today thrown around this town and all its entry points were sealed to maintain peace on the eve of 21st anniversary of Babri Mosque demolition as Muslim organisations decided to observe “black day” and Hindu outfits a “day of victory”.

Around 10,000 personnel from state police, Rapid Action Force (RAF) and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) have been deployed to maintain law and order, official sources said.

PAC jawans will also carry out round-the-clock water patrol on river Saryu to prevent any untoward incident.

In Lucknow, Ayodhya ADG (Law and Order) Mukul Goel said that all district police chiefs have been directed not to permit any religious event, festival, rallies or meetings tomorrow.

Goel said vigil would be kept on elements who could disturb communal harmony.

Two dozens CCTV cameras have been installed across Ayodhya city to keep close watch on movements.