Heavy security to thwart VHP's 'Sankalp Diwas' programme

Heavy security arrangements have been made to thwart VHP's proposed 'Sankalp Diwas' stir on October 18 over the Ram Temple issue, a day after it was banned by the Uttar Pradesh government.

"A three-tier security has been put in place at UP's border with adjoining states, besides the Faizabad border and Ayodhya, to effectively implement the ban on 'Sankalp Diwas'," IG (Law and Order) R K Vishkarma said.

The UP government had yesterday banned the proposed stir to press for a parliamentary legislation on building Ram Temple, but a defiant VHP had said it would go ahead with the 'Sankalp Diwas' programme as scheduled.

Vishwakarma said authorities will coordinate with Railways also, and those arriving to take part in the VHP programme by train or bus will be arrested, Vishwakarma said.

Intelligence network has also been alerted to keep a close watch on those coming for the programme, he said.

The IG said special arrangements are being made as the scheduled day of 'Sankalp Diwas' clashes with the auspicious occasion of 'Sharad Purnima', when around 50,000 people are expected to take holy dip in Saryu river in Ayodhya, besides immersion of Durga idols from neighbouring Basti district.

Vishkarma said five ASPs, 15 DySPs, 50 inspectors, 70 SIs, 10 lady SIs, 500 constables besides five companies of PAC, one RAF, besides anti-sabotage teams are being deployed to ensure that ban orders are implemented.

On a question, Vishkarma clarified that no programme will be allowed at public places.