Ayodhya verdict: The country has been put on high alert to ensure that no violence breaks out
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the nation over the Supreme Court's Ayodhya verdict, saying there is no space for negativity, bitterness and fear in new India. He also praised the country's judicial system for its "willpower". The disputed 2.77 acre land in Ayodhya will be given to a government-run trust for building a temple and Muslims will be given a five-acre "suitable" plot in the town, the Supreme Court announced today in a landmark verdict in the decades-old land dispute case. A five-judge constitution bench delivered a unanimous verdict.The verdict came almost a decade after the Allahabad High Court had partitioned the disputed site in the ratio of 2:1 between Hindu and Muslim litigants.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in Punjab's Gurdaspur to inaugurate the Indian side of the Kartarpur corridor, said the Ayodhya verdict will "reaffirm people's faith in judicial process". "The Honourable Supreme Court has given its verdict on the Ayodhya issue. This verdict shouldn't be seen as a win or loss for anybody. Be it Ram Bhakti or Rahim Bhakti, it is imperative that we strengthen the spirit of Rashtra Bhakti. May peace and harmony prevail!" PM Modi tweeted. Home Minister Amit Shah welcomed the judgment and said that the order "will further strengthen India's unity, integrity and great culture".
The Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board has expressed dis-satisfaction with the verdict. "We think it is unjust... We can't consider this justice. We are not criticizing all parts of judgment," said Zafaryab Jilani, the lawyer of the Muslim group. They said they will hold a meeting and take a call on whether a review petition should be filed.
Explaining its decision to grant the disputed site for a temple, the court had said the Archaeological Survey of India has found evidence that the 16th Century mosque of Mughal Emperor Babar was not built on vacant land.
The country has been put on high alert to ensure that no violence breaks out following the verdict. At least 12,000 security personnel have been posted in Uttar Pradesh, where Ayodhya is situated. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a series of tweets, said that the "Ayodhya verdict will not be anybody's victory or loss", adding that it was the priority of the country's citizens to maintain harmony.
The security cover of the five judges have also been increased ahead of the Ayodhya verdict. Two helicopters have been kept on standby in Lucknow and Ayodhya to tackle any possible emergency. Security arrangements in Delhi have also been tightened.
The dispute has dominated political discourse since the 1980s. In 1992, rightwing activists tore down the 16th century Babri mosque which they believed was built on the ruins of an ancient temple that marked the birthplace of the Lord Ram. More than 2,000 people were killed in the riots that followed post the incident.
The disputed land -- spanning an area of over 2.77 acres -- in Ayodhya has been claimed by both Hindus and Muslims. While Hindu activists want to build a temple on the site, Muslim groups claim there is no proof that a temple existed there.
The Allahabad High Court in 2010 had prescribed a three-way division of the disputed land but the verdict failed to satisfy the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla, the parties involved in the dispute. All three moved the Supreme Court.
Here are the LIVE UPDATES on Supreme Court verdict on Ayodhya land dispute case:
Read Here: "Vindicated And Blessed," Says BJP Veteran LK Advani On Ayodhya VerdictBJP veteran LK Advani, who turned the sporadic demands for a Ram temple at Ayodhya into a mass movement from the late 1980s, today welcomed the Supreme Court's landmark verdict, saying he stands "vindicated". The court has awarded the disputed 2.77 acres of land to Ram Lalla, the infant Lord Ram who is a respondent in the case, for a temple and an alternate five-acre site at a prominent spot in Ayodhya for a mosque.
Ayodhya Verdict: "Unanimous decision taken by the panel of esteemed judges must be respected," says N Chandrababu Naidu
Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday said the unanimous decision taken by the esteemed judges of the Supreme Court in Ram Janambhoomi-Babri Masjid title dispute case must be respected.
"The unanimous decision taken by the panel of esteemed judges must be respected. I request all to maintain peace and harmony.#AyodhaVerdict," tweeted Mr Naidu.
The Supreme Court on Saturday directed the Centre to give five acres of suitable land to the Sunni Waqf Board and at the same time make necessary arrangements for the construction of the temple by forming a trust.
Ayodhya Verdict: ASI report on excavation of Ayodhya site to be published as book: Minister
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) report which was submitted in the Supreme Court after excavation at the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site will be published as a book, Union Culture Minister Prahlad Patel said on Saturday.
Speaking to reporters after the top court verdict clearing the way for the construction of the Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya, Patel congratulated the ASI team which prepared the report.
"The ASI report which till now was the property of the court will soon be published in the form of a book for the public," he said.
"I am grateful to all the experts who worked on the report and also congratulate them for their efforts," he added.
Ayodhya Verdict: "In this verdict, faith has triumphed over facts," says Asaduddin Owaisi
"I am now afraid that there are many masjids in the country where Sangh Parivar claims that there was a temple long time back and they can use this. In this verdict, faith has triumphed over facts," said Asaduddin Owaisi.
Ayodhya Verdict: "A lot of emotions are attached to the case," says Union Minister Pralhad Joshi
Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi welcomed the Supreme Court's judgement in the Ayodhya land case on Saturday, stating that the decision should be accepted by everyone for the growth of the country.
Speaking to ANI, Mr Joshi said that keeping in mind the traditions of India, every citizen should respect the decision and maintain peace for their own good.
"A lot of emotions are attached to the case. Now that the court has given its verdict, everyone should accept it and move ahead for the growth of our country," he added.
Ayodhya Verdict: Sharad Pawar says Ayodhya verdict will help address a "serious concern" before the country
The NCP on Saturday welcomed the Supreme Court's landmark verdict that cleared way for the construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya and asked all to respect the judgement.
NCP chief Sharad Pawar said the top court's unanimous decision will help address a "serious concern" before the country.
"The Supreme Court's unanimous decision will help address a serious concern before the country. The judiciary has talked about protecting interests of all the sections of the society. It is a good thing," Mr Pawar told reporters.
"I urge all the people of the country that an important, landmark judgement has been given. All sections of the society should welcome and respect it," the NCP chief said and urged people to ensure peace and harmony.
On some BJP leaders visiting Ram temple after the verdict, Mr Pawar said it is an individual's right and choice whether to visit a temple or Masjid.
"There is no need to comment on it as it is not a political issue," he added.
Ayodhya Verdict: "This verdict showed how disputes can be resolved within constitutional boundaries," said Yogi Adityanath
"This verdict showed how disputes can be resolved within constitutional boundaries," said Yogi Adityanath.
Ayodhya Verdict: "The way people have accepted the verdict is laudable," said Yogi Adityanath
"The way people have accepted the verdict is laudable," said Yogi Adityanath.
Ayodhya Verdict: "Clear indication of robust Indian democracy," says Yogi Adityanath
"This verdict has given a clear indication of robust Indian democracy," says Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Ayodhya Verdict will strengthen country's inter-religious harmony
Maharashtra's caretaker Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday hailed the Supreme Court''s verdict on Ayodhya land title dispute case, saying the judgment will strengthen country''s multilingual and inter-religious harmony, reported news agency ANI.
"I welcome the verdict of the Supreme Court. It will strengthen our country''s multilingual, inter-religious harmony. This verdict is going to solidify the general public''s belief in the justice system," he was quoted as saying by ANI.
"This verdict is not a victory or defeat for anyone. I thank the people of Maharashtra for accepting the verdict and maintaining peace, law and order in the state," added Mr Fadnavis.
"For the future also, my request is that all religions and communities should readily accept this outcome. Everyone should contribute to maintaining peace and harmony. It is time to strengthen national unity and integrity," he said.
BJP always been committed to construction of Ram temple: Jagat Prakash Nadda
BJP working president Jagat Prakash Nadda on Saturday said his party has always been committed to the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya and it played a "sincere and positive" role on the issue.
Welcoming the unanimous decision of the five-judge top court bench, Nadda said the judgment was an example of inclusive views representing all sections of the society.
"The Bharatiya Janata Party welcomes and salutes the people of the country who have united and kept the social, cultural and spiritual fabric of the country intact. This decision has given a clear message that we are united and the roots of democracy in India are very strong," Mr Nadda said in a statement, reported PTI.
Ayodhya Verdict: Akhilesh Yadav has avoided a direct comment on Ayodhya verdict
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has avoided a direct comment on the Supreme Court's verdict on the Ayodhya dispute and made a poetic reaction.
"Jo faisley faslon ko ghatatey hain, woh insaan ko behtar insaan banate hain (The decisions which bridge the gap, makes people better human beings," Mr Yadav tweeted in Hindi.
The Samajwadi Party leader's comments assume significance as it was his father and then chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav who had ordered the Uttar Pradesh police to open fire at karsevaks gathered in Ayodhya on October 30, 1990, reported news agency PTI.
PM Modi's Message Of Peace Over Ayodhya Verdict Today is 9th November, the day when Berlin wall was brought down. Today, the Kartarpur Corridor was also inaugurated. Now the Ayodhya verdict, so this date gives us the message to stay united and move forward: PM Modi
The Supreme Court's verdict has brought about a new morning for us. The dispute might have affected several generations, but we would have to resolve that the new generation will give a fresh start to the work of developing a new India: PM Modi
In new India, there is no place for fear, bitterness and negativity: PM Modi on Ayodhya verdict
Supreme Court has shown grit and willpower. And that is why, judges, courts and our judicial system should be commended: PM Modi
PM Modi Addresses Nation On Ayodhya Verdict
This is a golden chapter in the history of Indian judicial system. In this matter, the court listened to the arguments of all the parties, and gave a unanimous judgement: PM Modi
People from all religions, all communities have accepted the decision wholeheartedly. This represents India's ancient culture and the spirit of harmony: PM Modi
The Supreme Court has delivered judgement in an issue which has a history of many centuries. The entire country had wanted the hearings on the matter should take place on a daily basis, which happened, and now the verdict is out: PM Modi
PM Modi On Ayodhya Verdict
The world now knows India's democracy is robust: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation on the Ayodhya verdict.
Shahi Imam Of Delhi's Jama Masjid Syed Ahmed Bukhari On Ayodhya Verdict"We have always maintained that we will accept the verdict of the Supreme Court. I hope the country will move towards development. As far as filing a review petition is concerned, I don't agree with it".
No Untoward Incident Reported: UP Police Chief
Uttar Pradesh remained peaceful following the Supreme Court judgement in the Ayodhya land title dispute case, a senior police officer has said.
"There is no report of any untoward incident from anywhere in the state. We are keeping a close watch (on the law and order situation). Our team is on the job," UP Director General of Police OP Singh told PTI.
Everyone Should Respect Decision: Ashok Gehlot
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said the Supreme Court judgement in the Ayodhya case should be respected by all and harmony and peace should be maintained.
"The day of judgment came after a long wait. Everyone should respect the decision by maintaining peace and harmony," he was quoted by news agency PTI as saying.
"We have made all arrangements to deal with any situation or anti-social elements who try to create any disturbance," he added.
I remember Bal Thackeray, Ashok Singhal on this day: Uddhav Thackeray
"The verdict given by the Supreme Court on the Ayodhya issue is historic. This verdict will help further strengthen the country's social fabric," he tweeted.
Ayodhya Verdict: Uddhav Thackeray Thanks Supreme Court
I thank the Supreme Court. Today the debate is over. I thank people of all religions as everyone has accepted the verdict: Uddhav Thackeray
N Chandrababu Naidu on Ayodhya Title Suit Judgement
Sharad Pawar On Ayodhya Judgement
The Supreme Court has given the final verdict today. Me and my party respect the decision. Hope all political parties and religious institutions honor the decision: Nationalist Congress Party Chief Sharad Pawar
Raj Thackeray On Ayodhya Verdict I am happy today. All 'karsevaks' who gave sacrifices during the entire struggle..their sacrifice has not gone to waste. Ram temple must be constructed at the earliest: MNS Chief Raj Thackeray
We humbly accept the Supreme Court verdict. I am thankful to God that Muslims by and large have accepted this verdict and the dispute has ended now. Though it is their (Muslim Personal law board) right to file review petition. I think the matter should just end now: Shia Cleric Maulana Kalbe Jawad
#AYODHYAVERDICT Top Twitter Trend Worldwide
Mere moments after the Supreme Court announced its historic verdict in the decades-old Ayodhya land dispute case this morning, hashtags like #AyodhyaVerdict and #RamMandir began trending on Twitter"
Supreme Court's historic Ayodhya verdict in 10 points
- Basing its verdict on the report filed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Supreme Court said the land dispute at the heart of the case should be decided on evidence. "Title cannot be established based on faith and belief. Whether a belief is justified is beyond judicial inquiry. Once a faith is established, courts should defer to it," the court said, adding that it should "preserve balance".
- The ASI report noted that an older structure existed below the disputed building but it did not say if it (the disputed building) had been constructed after demolishing the older structure. Referring to the report the court said the underlying structure was not Islamic.
- The court said that as per documentary evidence prior to 1857 there was no exclusion of Hindus from worshipping at the site. The outer courtyard became a focal point of worship by Hindus, for which they have been able to establish unimpeded possession, the court added.
- Muslims have not brought evidence to show possession, the court said. Noting that the inner courtyard was the contested site, the court also said evidence does not indicate it was abandoned by the Muslims. There is also no evidence to show the offer of namaz by Muslims was to the exclusion of Hindus, it added
- The Supreme Court also said that Muslims had been wrongly deprived of a mosque which had been constructed well over 450 years ago.
- In its written verdict the court said justice would not prevail if it were to overlook the fact the mosque had been lost through means that cannot be employed in a secular nation committed to the rule of law.
- On the demolition of the Babri Masjid, the court said it was "...a calculated act of destroying a place of public worship" and said "...it is necessary to provide restitution to the Muslim community for the unlawful destruction of their place of worship".
- In deciding some of the other petitions, the court ruled that Ram Janmbhoomi was not a juristic person and that the Nirmohi Akhara's suit was barred by limitation.
- The court's ruling that the 2.77 acres is to be handed over to a government-run trust to build a temple is contingent on the maintained of peace in Ayodhya, the court ruled. The government has been tasked with keeping law and order.
- The court recalled the ruling of the Allahabad High Court in which a three-way division of the land was ordered but said a similar decision today was legally unsustainable. "(This) is not feasible. Dividing the land will not sub serve interest of either of the parties or secure a lasting sense of peace and tranquillity," it said.
"Situation has been peaceful everywhere": UP top cop on Ayodhya verdict
Situation in Uttar Pradesh has been largely peaceful following the verdict in the Ayodhya case, PV Ramasastry, Additional DGP, Law and Order, said today.
"No reports of unrest in any of the 75 districts yet. Police to remain in the state of heightened alert for the next 3 days, situation will be monitored for a month," he said.
Multi-layered security arrangements have been put in place in the temple town of Ayodhya with drones being used to monitor the situation.
Full Text: Supreme Court Judgement In Ayodhya Case
Full text of Supreme Court judgement in Ayodhya case: The disputed land in Ayodhya will be given to a government-run trust for a temple and a "prominent site" in the holy town in Uttar Pradesh will be allotted for a mosque, the Supreme Court announced today in a landmark verdict in India's most divisive case dating back decades."
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath welcomed the Supreme Court verdict on Ayodhya land dispute case.
"I have spoken to home minister Amit Shah who has assured assistance if required. But we do not require any assistance at the moment. There is no major incident after the verdict and the state is absolutely peaceful, after the unanimous verdict of the Supreme Court, we respect it. I appeal once again we should maintain peace and harmony," he said
Security has been tightened in Madhya Pradesh with as many as 32 additional companies of the police are being deployed across the state.
"Time For Healing," Judge who was part of SC bench tells NDTV
One of the judges who was part of the Supreme Court Constitution bench said "it is time for healing." "It's time for healing. It is a big relief that we did our duty entrusted on us," he says.
In the unanimous judgement, the judges said they had been tasked with the resolution of a dispute "whose origins are as old as the idea of India itself".
"The disputed site has been a flash-point of continued conflagration over decades," said the judgement.
Apart from Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, who retires on November 17, the bench featured Justices SA Bobde, DY Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer.
They heard the case for 40 days.
The verdict comes after a century-old legal wrangle over a piece of land in Ayodhya where the 16th century Babri mosque stood before it was razed by Hindu activists who believe it is the birthplace of Lord Ram.
Ayodhya verdict: Sunni Waqf Board will be given a five-acre "suitable" plot to build a new mosque
The Sunni Waqf Board will be given a five-acre "suitable" plot to build a new mosque. This was necessary because the court "must ensure that a wrong committed must be remedied," the judges said, adding that "tolerance and mutual co-existence nourish the secular commitment of our nation and its people". A trust or board run by the government should be formed within three months for the building of a temple, said the court.
"This decision of the Supreme Court is important for several reasons: It shows how important is to follow the legal process in resolving a dispute. Each side was given enough time and opportunity to present its arguments. The temple of justice resolved the decades-old case amicably," PM Modi tweeted.
Supreme Court judgement on Ayodhya land dispute runs into 1,045 pages.
The judgment will further strengthen India's unity, integrity and great culture: Amit Shah
Home Minister Amit Shah said that the judgment will further strengthen India's unity, integrity and great culture. "I am confident that this landmark judgment given by the Supreme Court will prove to be a milestone in itself. This decision will further strengthen India's unity, integrity and great culture," Mr Shah tweeted.
Ayodhya case: Congress in favour of Ram temple construction, says Randeep Surjewala
The Congress is in favour of construction of Ram temple at the disputed land in Ayodhya, party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said, reacting to the landmark judgment in the decades-old land dispute case.
"We are in favour of the construction of Ram Temple. Ayodhya judgement not only opened the doors for temple construction but also closed the doors for BJP and others to politicize issue," he said.
The Congress also released a statement shortly after the Supreme Court verdict in the case.
"The Indian National Congress respects the verdict of the Supreme Court in the Ayodhya case. We appeal to all the parties concerned and to all communities to abide by the secular values and spirit of fraternity enshrined in our Constitution and to maintain peace and harmony. It is the responsibility of each one of us to reaffirm our tradition of mutual respect and unity among all that has defined our society through the ages," the party said in a statement.
The disputed land in Ayodhya will be given to a government-run trust for the building of a temple and a five-acre plot at a "prominent site" will be given for a mosque, the Supreme Court announced today.
Ayodhya Verdict: Politicians Appeal For Peace After Big Ayodhya Verdict
The Supreme Court, in its historic judgement on the disputed land in Ayodhya, said that it will be given to a government-run trust for the building of a temple and a five-acre "suitable" plot will be given for a mosque. Following the top court's decision, leaders from across party welcomed the Ayodhya verdict and appealed for peace.
After the Ayodhya verdict, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "The judgment of on Ayodhya is historic. The Judgement will further strengthen India's social fabric. I urge everyone to take the verdict with equanimity and magnanimity. I also appeal to the people to maintain peace & harmony after this landmark verdict."
Ayodhya case: A look at the five judges who delivered the landmark verdict
Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi
Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, who belongs to Assam, became the first person from the Northeast to be appointed to the country's top judicial position in October 2018. After enrolling at the bar in 1978, he practised at the Gauhati High Court and became a permanent judge on February 28, 2001. He was transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, where he eventually became its Chief Justice before being elevated to the Supreme Court in April 2012.
A judge who has heard several landmark cases through his career, including one pertaining to the National Citizens Register, he had indicated that judgment in the Ayodhya case will be delivered before his retirement on November 17. Earlier on Friday, he had met top Uttar Pradesh officials to discuss security arrangements in place ahead of the landmark.
Justice SA Bobde
Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, who will succeed Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi on November 17, joined the Bombay High Court as an additional judge in 2000 before being appointed as the Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court two years later.
The Maharashtra-born judge, who was elevated to the Supreme Court in April 2013, will be the top judge of the country for 18 months before his tenure expires. In a recent interview with NDTV, the 63-year-old Chief Justice designate had spoken of the Ayodhya dispute case as "one of the most important in the world".
Justice DY Chandrachud
The son of YV Chandrachud, the longest-serving Chief Justice of India, Justice DY Chandrachud was appointed as a Supreme Court judge in May 2016 by then President Pranab Mukherjee. He had earlier served in the Bombay High Court and the Allahabad High Court. A Harvard law graduate, Justice Chandrachud is known to have overturned several rulings that were believed to have turned obsolete with the passage of time.
Some such verdicts, including those on the adultery law and the right to privacy, were handed down from his father himself. Apart from law, he was also a visiting professor of Comparative Constitutional Law at the University of Mumbai and the Oklahoma University School of Law in the United States.
Justice Ashok Bhushan
Justice Ashok Bhushan, who launched his career in 1979, practised as an advocate in the Allahabad High Court before being elevated to the post of judge in April 2001.
He was transferred to the Kerala High Court in July 2014, and took charge as its Acting Chief Justice a few months later. He was appointed as the Chief Justice of the court in March 2015. Justice Bhushan was appointed to the Supreme Court on May 13, 2016.
Justice Abdul Nazeer
Justice Abdul Nazeer enrolled as an advocate in February 1983 and practised in the Karnataka High Court for 20 years. He was appointed as an additional judge at the court in February 2003 and turned permanent the following year. He was elevated to the Supreme Court on February 17, 2017.
Justice Abdul Nazeer made headlines in August 2017, when he - along with then Chief Justice JS Khehar - ruled that while the practice of triple talaq is "sinful in theology", the Supreme Court cannot interfere in personal laws. The central government finally banned the practice through legislative action earlier this year.
"We are not satisfied with the verdict. We will decide on filing a review petition," says Sunni Waqf Board Lawyer Zafaryab Jilani.
"We welcome the SC judgement on Ayodhya which ended decades old dispute. I appeal for peace and harmony," Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal tweeted.
Ayodhya case: "Everyone should respect the verdict," says Nitin Gadkari
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari appealed to people to "maintain peace and harmony" shortly after the Supreme Court delivered its verdict in the decades-old case.
In one of the most important and most anticipated judgements in India''s history, a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi put an end to the more than a century old dispute that has torn the social fabric of the nation.
The top court said the mosque should be constructed at a "prominent site" and a trust should be formed within three months for the construction of the temple at the site many Hindus believe Lord Ram was born.
The bench, also comprising Justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer, said possession of the disputed 2.77 acre land rights will handed over to the deity Ram Lalla, who is one of the three litigants in the case. The possession however will remain with a central government receiver.
Key points in Supreme Court's ruling in Ayodhya case
Ayodhya Case Verdict: Temple at disputed site, alternative land for mosque, says Top court
In one of the most important and most anticipated judgements in India''s history, a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi put an end to the more than a century old dispute that has torn the social fabric of the nation.
The top court said the mosque should be constructed at a "prominent site" and a trust should be formed within three months for the construction of the temple at the site many Hindus believe Lord Ram was born.
The bench, also comprising Justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer, said possession of the disputed 2.77 acre land rights will handed over to the deity Ram Lalla, who is one of the three litigants in the case. The possession however will remain with a central government receiver.
Disputed land to be given to a trust for the construction of a temple while the Sunni Waqf Board will get five acre of land on a prominent site in Ayodhya, the Supreme Court ruled out today.
Breaking News On Ayodhya Case: "Muslims should not be deprived of a structure; will get alternative site for masjid", says Supreme Court.
SC asks centre to frame scheme within 3 months and set up a trust for construction of a temple.
The CJI is attributing what the evidence says. The CJI is quoting what the Archeological Survey of India has concluded. Note: This is not an order
The points raised by CJI are:
- The disputed structure was not built on vacant land according to ASI
- Evidence has been presented that Hindus have been offering prayers at the outer courtyard
- Claim of Sunnis is that namaz were being offered at Babri mosque till destruction
- There was a consistent pattern of worship by Hindus in the outer courtyard
- Setting up a railing inside was done to ensure peaceful worship by both religions
Ayodhya case: Chief Justice of India, Justice Ranjan Gogoi starts reading out the judgement. "I will take half an hour to read out the judgement," he says.
Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath monitors situation at a control room in Lucknow.
Ayodhya verdict: 40,000 cops deployed in Mumbai
At least 40,000 police personnel have been deployed in Mumbai, officials said. The situation will be monitored through drone units
and live CCTV feeds from the police control room.
The financial capital had witnessed communal riots after demolition of the disputed structure in Ayodhya in December 1992 and January 1993. "We are prepared to tackle any eventuality," said DCP Pranay Ashok.
He said police are keeping a close watch on every activity in the city and will also deploy SRPF, Riot Control Police, Rapid Action Force. "We are also monitoring online activities through our social media wing. We will block objectionable posts and content as need be to ensure that no rumours are spread," the DCP added.
Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi leaves for Supreme Court. The Supreme Court will announce its verdict at 10:30 am.
Ayodhya case: Internet services to be suspended for 24 hours in Jaipur Commissionerate, from 10 am today, reports news agency ANI.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has requested people to accept the Supreme Court's judgment and maintain peace.
"We have full faith in our judiciary. I appeal to all to accept the Supreme Court''s verdict and maintain peace," he said.
Ayodhya case: School, colleges shut in several states; Sec 144 imposed
Schools and colleges are closed in several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan. Even in Delhi all government schools and many private schools are closed, as it is a second Saturday and the government has advised all private schools to also remain closed today.
Section 144 of CrPC, which prohibits gathering of more than four people, has been imposed in entire Goa, Uttar Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.
Ayodhya Case: Centre can't take credit for Ayodhya verdict, says Uddhav Thackeray
Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has said the BJP-led Union government cannot take "credit" for Ayodhya verdict.
"We had requested the government to make a law on construction of Ram Temple (in Ayodhya) but the government did not do that. Now, when the SC is going to pronounce the verdict, the government can't take credit for it (even if the verdict favours the pro-temple side)," Mr Thackeray said.
Ayodhya case: Priyanka Gandhi appeals all to maintain peace, mentions Mahatma Gandhi
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra referred to Mahatma Gandhi as she appealed to people to maintain peace.
"As you all know, the judgment of the Supreme Court on the Ayodhya case is going to come today. Whatever the decision of the court, we all have the responsibility to maintain the thousands of years old tradition of unity, social harmony and mutual love of the country," she tweeted in Hindi.
"This is Mahatma Gandhi's country. It is our duty to stay on the message of peace and non-violence," she tweeted.
Here is a 10-point timeline of the Ram Temple - Babri Masjid land dispute:
- The Babri Masjid was built in Ayodhya in 1528. Hindu groups claim it was built after demolishing a temple. In 1853, the first recorded communal clashes over the site took place. In 1859, the British administration put a fence around the site marking separate areas of worship for Hindus and Muslims, and it stood that way for nearly 90 years. The property dispute went to court for the first time in 1949 after idols of Lord Ram were placed inside the mosque.
- In 1984, Hindu groups formed a committee to spearhead the construction of a Ram temple. Three years later, a district court ordered the gates of the mosque to be opened after almost five decades and allowed Hindus to worship inside the "disputed structure." A Babri Mosque Action Committee was formed by Muslim groups. In 1989, foundations of a temple were laid on land adjacent to the "disputed structure".
- In 1990, the then BJP president LK Advani took out a cross-country rath yatra to garner support to build a Ram temple at the site. VHP volunteers partially damaged the Babri mosque.
- On December 6, 1992, the mosque was demolished by Hindu activists. Communal riots across India followed. Ten days after the demolition, the Liberhan Commission was set to probe the incident. The Commission submitted its report on June 2009 - naming LK Advani, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and other BJP leaders - almost 17 years after it began its inquiry.
- In September 2003, a court ruled that seven Hindu leaders, including some prominent BJP leaders, should stand trial for inciting the destruction of the Babri Mosque. But no charges were brought against Mr Advani who was then the Deputy Prime Minister. A year later, an Uttar Pradesh court ruled that the order which exonerated him should be reviewed.
- The case against the BJP leaders, including Murli Manohar Joshi and Uma Bharti as well, is being heard by a trial court in Lucknow. In July this year, the Supreme Court extended the tenure of the judge hearing the case and set a nine-month deadline for the verdict.
- In April 2002, a 3-judge Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court began hearings on determining who owned the site. In September 2010, the Allahabad High Court pronounced the verdict. The verdict said the site of Babri mosque is to be divided into three parts, each going to Nirmohi Akhara, Ram Lalla and the Sunni Central Waqf Board of Uttar Pradesh. Within months, Hindu groups and Muslim groups moved Supreme Court challenging the High Court verdict.
- In 2011, the Supreme Court stayed the Allahabad High Court order. Not long before, the top court had said the Allahabad High Court verdict was strange and surprising.
- After mediation proceedings by a Supreme Court-appointed three-member team failed to find an amicable solution to the dispute earlier this year, a five-judge constitution bench began day-to-day hearings on August 6.
- The daily hearings at the Supreme Court came to an end after 40 days on October 16. The verdict was reserved and set to be declared before November 17, when Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, who is leading the five-judge constitution bench hearing the case, is slated to retire.
A look at the five judges who will deliver the Ayodhya verdict
Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi
Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, who belongs to Assam, became the first person from the Northeast to be appointed to the country's top judicial position in October 2018. After enrolling at the bar in 1978, he practised at the Gauhati High Court and became a permanent judge on February 28, 2001. He was transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, where he eventually became its Chief Justice before being elevated to the Supreme Court in April 2012.
A judge who has heard several landmark cases through his career, including one pertaining to the National Citizens Register, he had indicated that judgment in the Ayodhya case will be delivered before his retirement on November 17. Earlier on Friday, he had met top Uttar Pradesh officials to discuss security arrangements in place ahead of the landmark.
Justice SA Bobde
Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, who will succeed Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi on November 17, joined the Bombay High Court as an additional judge in 2000 before being appointed as the Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court two years later.
The Maharashtra-born judge, who was elevated to the Supreme Court in April 2013, will be the top judge of the country for 18 months before his tenure expires. In a recent interview with NDTV, the 63-year-old Chief Justice designate had spoken of the Ayodhya dispute case as "one of the most important in the world".
Justice DY Chandrachud
The son of YV Chandrachud, the longest-serving Chief Justice of India, Justice DY Chandrachud was appointed as a Supreme Court judge in May 2016 by then President Pranab Mukherjee. He had earlier served in the Bombay High Court and the Allahabad High Court. A Harvard law graduate, Justice Chandrachud is known to have overturned several rulings that were believed to have turned obsolete with the passage of time.
Some such verdicts, including those on the adultery law and the right to privacy, were handed down from his father himself. Apart from law, he was also a visiting professor of Comparative Constitutional Law at the University of Mumbai and the Oklahoma University School of Law in the United States.
Justice Ashok Bhushan
Justice Ashok Bhushan, who launched his career in 1979, practised as an advocate in the Allahabad High Court before being elevated to the post of judge in April 2001.
He was transferred to the Kerala High Court in July 2014, and took charge as its Acting Chief Justice a few months later. He was appointed as the Chief Justice of the court in March 2015. Justice Bhushan was appointed to the Supreme Court on May 13, 2016.
Justice Abdul Nazeer
Justice Abdul Nazeer enrolled as an advocate in February 1983 and practised in the Karnataka High Court for 20 years. He was appointed as an additional judge at the court in February 2003 and turned permanent the following year. He was elevated to the Supreme Court on February 17, 2017.
Justice Abdul Nazeer made headlines in August 2017, when he - along with then Chief Justice JS Khehar - ruled that while the practice of triple talaq is "sinful in theology", the Supreme Court cannot interfere in personal laws. The central government finally banned the practice through legislative action earlier this year.
Uttar Pradesh police has appealed to people not to pay head to rumours.
"Ayodhya verdict will not be anybody's victory or loss": PM Modi
In a series of tweets in Hindi on Friday, the Prime Minister said that the "Ayodhya verdict will not be anybody's victory or loss", adding that it was the priority of the country's citizens to maintain harmony. "I appeal to countrymen that it should be our priority to strengthen our tradition of maintaining peace and harmony after Ayodhya verdict. In the run up to Ayodhya verdict, efforts have been made by various people and organisations to maintain harmonious atmosphere. We have to maintain amity even after Ayodhya verdict," PM Modi said in another tweet.
The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has also ordered the closure of all schools, colleges, educational institutions and training centres in the state from today to Monday. Similar orders have been issued in Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu. Delhi and Rajasthan too.
Ayodhya case: Supreme Court to deliver verdict at 10:30 am
The landmark verdict will be delivered at 10:30 am. The decision was taken by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi in consultation with four other judges deciding the case late on Friday evening. Massive security arrangements have been put in place to ensure that there is no backlash after the verdict.