Babri Masjid Verdict

The Allahabad High Court verdict in the disputed Babri Masjid suit is yet to come (when the magazine was going to press) but the communal elements have already announced that they will not accept the judgement. The unnecessary provocation through distribution of pamphlets, sending SMSs and irresponsible statements reveals that they are not interested in peace.

In the past, Muslims and Hindus, even though they are integral parts of India, had bitter relations. Speaking to a program in Bangalore former RSS chief K. S. Sudarshan said, “It were the Englishmen who created hatred between Hindus and Muslims and tried to keep them away from one another. The Hindu-Muslim conflicts are political in nature.”

The tension between the communities reached its peak after the demolition of 16th century Babri Masjid in Ayodhya (U.P.). The alleged politically motivated initiative by communal elements is responsible for many riots taking place after December 6, 1992. The controversy over the Babri Masjid site started only in 19th century when the British had long before stepped into India. The dispute over the site was one of the many tricks the English used to create divisions among Indian inhabitants.

It was in January 16, 1950 that a case as to who owns the Ayodhya site was started. It is around 60 years since then and the case could not reach any conclusion as the politicians made it a medium to garner votes.

It is almost sure that once the High Court issues verdict—the would be Allahabad HC judgement can be challenged in the SC—in favour of either of the parties, it will disturb the communal harmony. Unless either Hindus or Muslims renounce the ownership of Babri Masjid site there remains every possibility of bloodshed.

Hindu brethren can come up with a laudable example of sacrificing for harmony, if they give up their resolution of building Ram Mandir at the disputed Ayodhya site. Thus a disturbance of communal can be avoided and it will be the practical proof that they are patriotic to India. They will be saving India from huge damage. It will not only send a positive message that peace is their priority but also will serve as an example of tolerance.

Hindu brethren are in majority in India and hence they are expected to exhibit tolerance in this case. If minorities present sacrifice by renouncing the ownership, that will not be the real sacrifice as they will be compelled to do so. The real sacrifice would be when the majority do it.

The fact is that in common sense of justice, one place of worship of one community cannot be pulled down by a mob illegally and forcefully and a place of worship of a another community be build exactly on the same spot forcefully citing law and order problems.

By this they can please Rama who loved peace. He will be happy that their adherents putting into practice the teachings of peace saved “Bharat Mata” from bloodshed only to show that Hindu religion is about peace. And the existence of a mosque at the place that Hindus say is the birthplace of Rama will convey the message that minorities in India are respected by the majority.