Ayodhya case: Advani surprised at SC's decision to stay verdict

Expressing surprise over the Supreme Court's decision on interim stay on the final verdict in the Ayodhya case, BJP leader L K Advani today voiced hope that the apex court will give a go ahead to the Allahabad High Court next week.

He also appealed to the people and the BJP workers to maintain calm and respect the courts.

Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at the famous Shiva temple here, the spot from where he took out the rath yatra to Ayodhya on this day 20 years ago, he said, "I am not able to understand the decision of the Supreme Court".

"I respect the judicial system of the country. But when the masses are awaiting the decision of the court on Ayodhya.. When litigants involved in the case also wanted the verdict.. And when the Allabhad High Court had also rejected the petition to defer the verdict, this decision has come from the Supreme Court," Advani, who was accompanied by expelled BJP leader Uma Bharti, said.

"But, now I will ask people and BJP workers to maintain calm for another few days as a respect to our courts," he said.

"I appeal to the apex court that countrymen have been awaiting a judgement in this case since the last 50 years..Hence, I urge SC to take up the matter finally on September 28 and give it back to Allahabad High Court for decision on September 29," Advani said.

The veteran leader visits Somnath every year since he took out a yatra from here to Ayodhya on September 25, 1990.