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Historical Overview of Ayodhya Dispute

Aug 14, 2024

Ayodhya Dispute and Ram Temple Issue

Background

  • The Ayodhya dispute is one of India's most significant land-related controversies, involving the birthplace of Lord Ram.
  • The issue has historical roots dating back to the 16th century, involving religious and political elements that have led to widespread riots and loss of lives in India.

Historical Context

  • 500 BC: Ayodhya was the capital of the Kosala kingdom where Lord Ram was believed to be born.
  • 57 AD: King Vikramaditya reconstructed the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
  • 1526: Babur invaded India and constructed Babri Masjid on the site.
  • 1857: British rule saw the first recorded riots over the site.

Key Events in the Dispute

  • 1853: Hanuman Garhi temple attacked, leading to riots.
  • 1857: British demarcation of Hindu and Muslim prayer areas.
  • 1949: Ram Lalla idols placed inside the mosque, leading to legal battles.
  • 1989: VHP plans for the construction of Ram Temple, gaining political traction.
  • 1990: Advani's Rath Yatra increases communal tensions.

Legal Proceedings

  • 1950s-1980s: Multiple legal cases filed by Hindus and Muslims over ownership and rights to the land.
  • 2003: ASI report finds evidence of a non-Islamic structure beneath Babri Masjid.
  • 2010: Allahabad High Court divides the disputed land into three parts, one each to Ram Lalla, Nirmohi Akhara, and Sunni Waqf Board.
  • 2019: Supreme Court awards the entire disputed 2.77 acres to Ram Lalla, orders 5-acre land to be given to Sunni Waqf Board.

Political and Social Impact

  • BJP, VHP, RSS, and other organizations played significant roles in mobilizing public opinion and political strategy around the issue.
  • Events such as Rath Yatras and speeches by political leaders significantly influenced the dispute.
  • Riots and communal tensions were frequent, with significant loss of life and property.

Construction of Ram Temple

  • Foundation stone for Ram Temple laid by PM Narendra Modi on August 5, 2020.
  • Temple construction is ongoing, with completion expected by December 2024.

Conclusion

  • The Ayodhya dispute highlights the intersection of religion, history, and politics in India.
  • Supreme Court's 2019 judgment aimed to resolve the dispute, with ongoing efforts to construct the Ram Temple and develop Ayodhya as a religious site.

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