The under-construction Ram temple in Ayodhya will be strong enough to withstand earthquakes or even if the Saryu river changes course.

All technical experts including IIT engineers are busy brainstorming to boost the temple construction, which is said to be 1,000 years old. Champat Rai, General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, told IANS on Wednesday that all the homework is being done for the construction of the temple.

As Ayodhya is situated on the banks of Saryu river, when the remains of the temple were excavated, crumbly sand emerged creating a challenge for laying the foundation. Asked about this, Rai said, "This challenge has been accepted by the Indian engineers. The river has a bank and the river may change course. Earthquakes may occur in the future. Below is the crumbly sand. Taking all these things seriously, experts are preparing for strong construction."

Rai said, "Sand has been found up to 60 metres below the proposed site for construction of the temple. We have also asked for photos from ISRO. It has been revealed that Saryu river has changed direction five times. The river may change direction in the next 500 years also. The temple construction committee is taking all these things into account."

Rai said, "There was brainstorming of experts on this subject. It has been decided that the way a dam wall is built, that method should be adopted for the construction of the temple foundation."

"Engineers at IIT-Bombay, Delhi, Chennai, and Guwahati, experts from Larsen &amp; Toubro and Tata are working on drawing up a strong foundation for the temple. We expect the foundation to be built in the next 2-3 days. The map will also be ready."

The Ram temple will be constructed with stones. The height of each floor will be 20 feet, length 360 feet and width 235 feet. The construction work is under the supervision of Nripendra Mishra, former Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Rai, who is also vice-president of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, told IANS that a grand Ram temple would be completed in Ayodhya in the next three years. The map of the temple will be wider than the old map, because now more land is available.

The under-construction Ram temple in Ayodhya will be strong enough to withstand earthquakes or even if the Saryu river changes course. All technical experts including IIT engineers are busy brainstorming to boost the temple construction, which is said to be 1,000 years old.

The under-construction Ram temple in Ayodhya will be strong enough to withstand earthquakes or even if the Saryu river changes course. All technical experts including IIT engineers are busy brainstorming to boost the temple construction, which is said to be 1,000 years old. Champat Rai, General Secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, told IANS on Wednesday that all the homework is being done for the construction of the temple. As Ayodhya is situated on the banks of Saryu river, when the remains of the temple were excavated, crumbly sand emerged creating a challenge for laying the foundation. Asked about this, Rai said, "This challenge has been accepted by the Indian engineers. The river has a bank and the river may change course. Earthquakes may occur in the future. Below is the crumbly sand. Taking all these things seriously, experts are preparing for strong construction." Rai said, "Sand has been found up to 60 metres below the proposed site for construction of the temple. We have also asked for photos from ISRO. It has been revealed that Saryu river has changed direction five times. The river may change direction in the next 500 years also. The temple construction committee is taking all these things into account." Rai said, "There was brainstorming of experts on this subject. It has been decided that the way a dam wall is built, that method should be adopted for the construction of the temple foundation." "Engineers at IIT-Bombay, Delhi, Chennai, and Guwahati, experts from Larsen & Toubro and Tata are working on drawing up a strong foundation for the temple. We expect the foundation to be built in the next 2-3 days. The map will also be ready." The Ram temple will be constructed with stones. The height of each floor will be 20 feet, length 360 feet and width 235 feet. The construction work is under the supervision of Nripendra Mishra, former Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Rai, who is also vice-president of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, told IANS that a grand Ram temple would be completed in Ayodhya in the next three years. The map of the temple will be wider than the old map, because now more land is available.

'Ram temple to be built to withstand quakes, even if Saryu changes course'

The Uttar Pradesh Police have registered an FIR against unknown persons for fraudulently transferring rupees&nbsp;six lakh from the bank account of the Ram Mandir Trust through two fake cheques and attempting to transfer around Rs 10 lakh with a third cheque that was timely detected as counterfeit by the bank.

A case has been registered at the Kotwali police station on a complaint filed by the Trust's secretary and VHP leader Champat Rai, a senior police official said.

"We have seized the account in which the fund has been transferred. A police team has been sent to Lucknow and another team to Bombay as the account in which the money has been transferred is of Maharashtra," Ayodhya DIG Deepak Kumar told PTI.

He said those behind the crime have withdrawn rupees&nbsp;four lakh from the fraudulently transferred amount while rupees&nbsp;two lakh is still in their account.

Rupees 2.5 lakhs was fraudulently transferred from the Trust's account in State Bank of India (SBI) on September 1 and rupees&nbsp;3.5 lakh on September 8 through a second fake cheque, the FIR said.

The issue came to light after a senior official of the SBI in Lucknow called Rai to confirm if the Trust had issued a cheque for transfer of Rs 9.86 lakh.

"We give phone calls to all our customers before clearing cheques (with large amounts). I myself called the customer regarding the clearing of cheque for Rs 9 lakhs 86 thousand and the customer (Rai) received the phone after many repeated calls," Mona Rastogi, deputy manager of the clearing department of SBI, told PTI.

She said it was certain that bank officials had called on the Trust's registered phone number to confirm payments for the first two "fake" cheques of Rs 2.5 lakh and Rs 3.5 lakh each before clearing the payments earlier this month.

"Definitely the bank had called the customer before clearing the cheques of Rs 2.5 lakhs and Rs 3.5 lakh. The call records and details are being checked to ascertain if the customer had received the calls," she said.

Rastogi said had Rai not taken her call, the third cloned cheque would also have been cleared because it appeared as original and the signatures too raised no doubts. "The cheques are cleared if the norms are followed and the signatures are found to be correct," she said.

In his complaint filed with the police, Rai stated that the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has crores of rupees in its bank account and it was earlier unaware that the funds were fraudulently transferred from the account.

Ayodhya DIG Deepak Kumar told PTI that an FIR has been lodged at the Kotwali police station here in this regard and investigation is being done.

"We have seized the account in which the fund has been transferred. Four lakh rupees from the account have been withdrawn but two lakhs rupees are still there," he said.

The Uttar Pradesh Police have registered an FIR against unknown persons for fraudulently transferring rupees six lakh from the bank account of the Ram Mandir Trust through two fake cheques and attempting to transfer around Rs 10 lakh with a third cheque that was timely detected as counterfeit by the bank.

The Uttar Pradesh Police have registered an FIR against unknown persons for fraudulently transferring rupees six lakh from the bank account of the Ram Mandir Trust through two fake cheques and attempting to transfer around Rs 10 lakh with a third cheque that was timely detected as counterfeit by the bank. A case has been registered at the Kotwali police station on a complaint filed by the Trust's secretary and VHP leader Champat Rai, a senior police official said. "We have seized the account in which the fund has been transferred. A police team has been sent to Lucknow and another team to Bombay as the account in which the money has been transferred is of Maharashtra," Ayodhya DIG Deepak Kumar told PTI. He said those behind the crime have withdrawn rupees four lakh from the fraudulently transferred amount while rupees two lakh is still in their account. Rupees 2.5 lakhs was fraudulently transferred from the Trust's account in State Bank of India (SBI) on September 1 and rupees 3.5 lakh on September 8 through a second fake cheque, the FIR said. The issue came to light after a senior official of the SBI in Lucknow called Rai to confirm if the Trust had issued a cheque for transfer of Rs 9.86 lakh. "We give phone calls to all our customers before clearing cheques (with large amounts). I myself called the customer regarding the clearing of cheque for Rs 9 lakhs 86 thousand and the customer (Rai) received the phone after many repeated calls," Mona Rastogi, deputy manager of the clearing department of SBI, told PTI. She said it was certain that bank officials had called on the Trust's registered phone number to confirm payments for the first two "fake" cheques of Rs 2.5 lakh and Rs 3.5 lakh each before clearing the payments earlier this month. "Definitely the bank had called the customer before clearing the cheques of Rs 2.5 lakhs and Rs 3.5 lakh. The call records and details are being checked to ascertain if the customer had received the calls," she said. Rastogi said had Rai not taken her call, the third cloned cheque would also have been cleared because it appeared as original and the signatures too raised no doubts. "The cheques are cleared if the norms are followed and the signatures are found to be correct," she said. In his complaint filed with the police, Rai stated that the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has crores of rupees in its bank account and it was earlier unaware that the funds were fraudulently transferred from the account. Ayodhya DIG Deepak Kumar told PTI that an FIR has been lodged at the Kotwali police station here in this regard and investigation is being done. "We have seized the account in which the fund has been transferred. Four lakh rupees from the account have been withdrawn but two lakhs rupees are still there," he said.

Rupees 6 lakh fraudulently transferred from Ram Temple Trust bank account

August 5 will is a momentous day in India's history as Prime minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the grand Ram Temple. 
&nbsp; 
He placed a 40-kilo silver brick at the very spot, which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Ram.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his speech after laying the foundation stone, said: "Ram temple will become the modern symbol of our traditions. It'll become a symbol of our devotion, our national sentiment. This temple will also symbolise the power of collective resolution of crores of people."

Clad in a gold silk kurta and a dhoti -- Modi had to add a mask to his traditional attire. The venue and the surrounding areas were cordoned off to keep the crowd away and only invitees were allowed to enter the ritual arena.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ram-temple-in-ayodhya-pm-modi-lays-the-first-brick-318449/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At least 170 spiritual leaders were in attendance and scores of devotees watched on giant screens set-up across the city.

The idol was kept under a tent for more than three decades. It was moved to a make-shift temple earlier this year. The proposed ram temple will be double the size of the original plan.

It will be constructed in the Nagara style of architecture and, will stand over 160 feet in height.

For the foundation of the temple, 200,000 bricks inscribed with lord ram have been sent by devotees over the years.

Soil from 2,000 holy sites around India and water from 100 holy rivers will be used.

It will be a three-storey stone structure with multiple turrets, pillars and domes. The temple will have five domes instead of two to accommodate more devotees. 360 pillars will bear the weight of the domes. The project is expected to be completed in the next three years and, will cost at least 300 crore rupees.

Indians in the United States are in a celebratory mood. They went on a march chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' -- from the Capitol Hill to the White House. Temples in California, Washington, Texas and Florida have planned special rituals to mark the historic event.

August 5 will is a momentous day in India's history as Prime minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the grand Ram Temple. He placed a 40-kilo silver brick at the very spot, which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Ram.

August 5 will is a momentous day in India's history as Prime minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the grand Ram Temple. He placed a 40-kilo silver brick at the very spot, which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Ram. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his speech after laying the foundation stone, said: "Ram temple will become the modern symbol of our traditions. It'll become a symbol of our devotion, our national sentiment. This temple will also symbolise the power of collective resolution of crores of people." Clad in a gold silk kurta and a dhoti -- Modi had to add a mask to his traditional attire. The venue and the surrounding areas were cordoned off to keep the crowd away and only invitees were allowed to enter the ritual arena. At least 170 spiritual leaders were in attendance and scores of devotees watched on giant screens set-up across the city. The idol was kept under a tent for more than three decades. It was moved to a make-shift temple earlier this year. The proposed ram temple will be double the size of the original plan. It will be constructed in the Nagara style of architecture and, will stand over 160 feet in height. For the foundation of the temple, 200,000 bricks inscribed with lord ram have been sent by devotees over the years. Soil from 2,000 holy sites around India and water from 100 holy rivers will be used. It will be a three-storey stone structure with multiple turrets, pillars and domes. The temple will have five domes instead of two to accommodate more devotees. 360 pillars will bear the weight of the domes. The project is expected to be completed in the next three years and, will cost at least 300 crore rupees. Indians in the United States are in a celebratory mood. They went on a march chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' -- from the Capitol Hill to the White House. Temples in California, Washington, Texas and Florida have planned special rituals to mark the historic event.

Momentous day in Indian history as PM Modi lays foundation stone for Ram Temple

Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Ayodhya from Delhi on Wednesday (August 5) to attend bhoomi pujan of Ram Temple. The grand celebrations for the bhoomi pujan started at 8 am and PM Modi will perform bhoomi pujan at the auspicious time of 12:40 pm.

PM Modi leaves from Delhi for Ayodhya to attend Bhoomi Pujan

The muhurt for Ram Mandir bhoomi pujan is at 12:40 pm. The prime minister will reach Ayodhya at 11:30 and will perform a puja at Hanumangarhi temple.

Ram Temple bhoomi pujan today | Itinerary of PM Modi's Ayodhya visit | India

The Saryu Ghat was seen decorated ahead of the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Wednesday. In wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, sanitisation work was also done at the Hanuman Garhi temple in the morning ahead of the Prime Minister`s visit.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-blog-sanitisation-underway-in-ayodhya-before-ram-temple-foundation-laying-ceremony-318200">Live blog: Ayodhya gears for Ram Temple foundation laying ceremony</a>

Strict security and COVID-19 protocols will be followed at the temple. PM Modi will perform `pooja` at Hanuman Garhi and Shree Ramlala Virajman before performing `bhoomi poojan` of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Prime Minister`s Office (PMO) had informed on Tuesday.

He will unveil a plaque to mark the laying of the foundation stone and also release a commemorative postage stamp on `Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir`.Invitations have been sent to 175 people, including 135 saints of 35 religious organisations to attend the foundation stone-laying ceremony of Ram temple.&nbsp;

The Saryu Ghat was seen decorated ahead of the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Wednesday. In wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, sanitisation work was also done at the Hanuman Garhi temple in the morning ahead of the Prime Minister`s visit.

The Saryu Ghat was seen decorated ahead of the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Wednesday. In wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, sanitisation work was also done at the Hanuman Garhi temple in the morning ahead of the Prime Minister`s visit. Also read: Live blog: Ayodhya gears for Ram Temple foundation laying ceremony Strict security and COVID-19 protocols will be followed at the temple. PM Modi will perform `pooja` at Hanuman Garhi and Shree Ramlala Virajman before performing `bhoomi poojan` of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Prime Minister`s Office (PMO) had informed on Tuesday. He will unveil a plaque to mark the laying of the foundation stone and also release a commemorative postage stamp on `Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir`.Invitations have been sent to 175 people, including 135 saints of 35 religious organisations to attend the foundation stone-laying ceremony of Ram temple.

COVID-19 protocols in place as Ayodhya gets ready for grand Ram Temple ceremony

A temple will come up on the 2.77 acres of land in Ayodhya and a five-acre plot at an alternate site will go for the building of a mosque, the top court said in a judgment that was welcomed by all involved.

Ram Temple to be a catalyst for growth | Ramayan's global connect | India | South-Asia

Temples across the US have announced special events to celebrate the foundation laying ceremony of the historic Ram Temple in Ayodhya, with a tableau truck displaying digital images of the Ram Temple going around the US Capitol Hill on Tuesday, according to Hindu community leaders.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the temple would take place on August 5 in the holy town of Ayodhya and Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be attending the event.

Temples across the US will perform special poojas and prayers, while a large number of Indian-Americans have said that they would lit diya to celebrate the bhoomi poojan of the Ram Temple.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-you-should-know-before-ram-mandir-bhoomi-puja-318075">In pics: What you should know about Ram Temple groundbreaking ceremony</a>

Indian-Americans from in and around Washington DC said that a tableau truck with a big LED display on Sri Ram Mandir will go around the Capitol Hill and the White house on Tuesday night.

Ayodhya Sri Ram Mandir Tableau will go around the US Capitol Hill marking the beginning of the historic Temple construction at the holiest site for billion strong Hindus around the World,&nbsp;a statement issued by the community leaders here said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-blog-ayodhya-gears-for-ram-temple-foundation-laying-ceremony-all-decked-up-318200">Live blog: Ayodhya gears for Ram Temple foundation laying ceremony</a>

The Hindu Mandir Executives' Conference and Hindu Mandir Priests' Conference have also called for a virtual collective national prayer across America to rejoice the upcoming Shree Ram Mandir Poojan at Ayodhya.

Similarly in the city of New York as well, Hindu community leaders have decided to celebrate the historic occasion.

Images of Lord Ram and 3D portraits of the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya will be beamed across the giant billboards in the iconic Times Square on August 5.

Prominent community leader and President of the American India Public Affairs Committee Jagdish Sewhani said that among the prominent billboards that are being leased for the occasion are the giant Nasdaq screen and the 17,000-square-foot wrap-around LED display screen, considered among the largest continuous exterior displays in the world and the highest-resolution exterior LED screen in Times Square.

Temples across the US have announced special events to celebrate the foundation laying ceremony of the historic Ram Temple in Ayodhya, with a tableau truck displaying digital images of the Ram Temple going around the US Capitol Hill on Tuesday, according to Hindu community leaders.

Temples across the US have announced special events to celebrate the foundation laying ceremony of the historic Ram Temple in Ayodhya, with a tableau truck displaying digital images of the Ram Temple going around the US Capitol Hill on Tuesday, according to Hindu community leaders. The groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the temple would take place on August 5 in the holy town of Ayodhya and Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be attending the event. Temples across the US will perform special poojas and prayers, while a large number of Indian-Americans have said that they would lit diya to celebrate the bhoomi poojan of the Ram Temple. Also see: In pics: What you should know about Ram Temple groundbreaking ceremony Indian-Americans from in and around Washington DC said that a tableau truck with a big LED display on Sri Ram Mandir will go around the Capitol Hill and the White house on Tuesday night. Ayodhya Sri Ram Mandir Tableau will go around the US Capitol Hill marking the beginning of the historic Temple construction at the holiest site for billion strong Hindus around the World, a statement issued by the community leaders here said. Also read: Live blog: Ayodhya gears for Ram Temple foundation laying ceremony The Hindu Mandir Executives' Conference and Hindu Mandir Priests' Conference have also called for a virtual collective national prayer across America to rejoice the upcoming Shree Ram Mandir Poojan at Ayodhya. Similarly in the city of New York as well, Hindu community leaders have decided to celebrate the historic occasion. Images of Lord Ram and 3D portraits of the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya will be beamed across the giant billboards in the iconic Times Square on August 5. Prominent community leader and President of the American India Public Affairs Committee Jagdish Sewhani said that among the prominent billboards that are being leased for the occasion are the giant Nasdaq screen and the 17,000-square-foot wrap-around LED display screen, considered among the largest continuous exterior displays in the world and the highest-resolution exterior LED screen in Times Square.

Indian-Americans to celebrate Ram Temple foundation laying ceremony

The preparations for the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya are in full swing.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is slated to visit the city on Sunday for the second time in a week to take stock of the preparation done.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone of the Ram Mandir here on August 5 after which the construction of the temple will commence.&nbsp;

Several dignitaries are expected to participate in the ceremony.

On Saturday, several areas of Ayodhya were illuminated with diyas (earthen lamps) and colourful lights.&nbsp;

Over the last one month all the top officials of the state, including Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, have also visited Ayodhya.&nbsp;

Many developmental changes have been made to the city -- including the widening of the roads.

On Saturday, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Ayodhya, said that COVID-19 protocols have been put in place. "We have requested everyone to not let more than five people gather at a place. We have also planned route diversions at 12 places to ease traffic movement," the SSP said.

(with inputs from ANI)

The preparations for the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya are in full swing. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is slated to visit the city on Sunday for the second time in a week to take stock of the preparation done.

The preparations for the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya are in full swing. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is slated to visit the city on Sunday for the second time in a week to take stock of the preparation done. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone of the Ram Mandir here on August 5 after which the construction of the temple will commence. Several dignitaries are expected to participate in the ceremony. On Saturday, several areas of Ayodhya were illuminated with diyas (earthen lamps) and colourful lights. Over the last one month all the top officials of the state, including Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, have also visited Ayodhya. Many developmental changes have been made to the city -- including the widening of the roads. On Saturday, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Ayodhya, said that COVID-19 protocols have been put in place. "We have requested everyone to not let more than five people gather at a place. We have also planned route diversions at 12 places to ease traffic movement," the SSP said. (with inputs from ANI)

Ayodhya decked up ahead of August 5 Ram temple 'bhoomi pujan', UP CM to visit on Sunday

The Ram temple in Ayodhya will not only give a boost to tourism but generate employment opportunities as well, Uttar Pradesh minister Shrikant Sharma said here on Sunday.

The minister said the news of the August 5 "bhoomi pujan" (ground-breaking ceremony) of the Ram temple by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delighted devotees of Lord Ram across the globe.

The grand temple will not only give a boost to tourism but create jobs as well, he said.

The Uttar Pradesh government has started work to give a facelift to Ayodhya to draw in international tourists in large numbers, he said.

After a protracted legal battle, the Supreme Court had on November 9 last year paved the way for the construction of the Ram temple by a trust at the disputed site in Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot an alternative five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a new mosque at a "prominent" place in the holy town in Uttar Pradesh.

Sharma expressed his gratitude to the Apex Court for delivering the long-awaited judgment on the Ram temple.

Since Prime Minister Modi could pave the way for a conducive environment, the judgment was delivered by the Apex Court, he claimed. 
The minister also appreciated the maturity of people of the country, especially residents of Uttar Pradesh, for maintaining harmony after the court verdict.

He also accused opposition parties of trying to create hurdles on the way of construction of the temple.

"The Ram temple in Ayodhya is being constructed as per the positive thinking and faith of the prime minister," Sharma, the minister for energy, additional sources of energy, said.

He said special programmes will be held in several parts of the state, including Mathura, to mark the Ram temple "bhoomi pujan" ceremony.&nbsp;

The Ram temple in Ayodhya will not only give a boost to tourism but generate employment opportunities as well, Uttar Pradesh minister Shrikant Sharma said here on Sunday.

The Ram temple in Ayodhya will not only give a boost to tourism but generate employment opportunities as well, Uttar Pradesh minister Shrikant Sharma said here on Sunday. The minister said the news of the August 5 "bhoomi pujan" (ground-breaking ceremony) of the Ram temple by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delighted devotees of Lord Ram across the globe. The grand temple will not only give a boost to tourism but create jobs as well, he said. The Uttar Pradesh government has started work to give a facelift to Ayodhya to draw in international tourists in large numbers, he said. After a protracted legal battle, the Supreme Court had on November 9 last year paved the way for the construction of the Ram temple by a trust at the disputed site in Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot an alternative five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a new mosque at a "prominent" place in the holy town in Uttar Pradesh. Sharma expressed his gratitude to the Apex Court for delivering the long-awaited judgment on the Ram temple. Since Prime Minister Modi could pave the way for a conducive environment, the judgment was delivered by the Apex Court, he claimed. The minister also appreciated the maturity of people of the country, especially residents of Uttar Pradesh, for maintaining harmony after the court verdict. He also accused opposition parties of trying to create hurdles on the way of construction of the temple. "The Ram temple in Ayodhya is being constructed as per the positive thinking and faith of the prime minister," Sharma, the minister for energy, additional sources of energy, said. He said special programmes will be held in several parts of the state, including Mathura, to mark the Ram temple "bhoomi pujan" ceremony.

Ram temple will give a boost to tourism, create jobs: UP minister

Shiv Sena leader and Maharashtra Minister Eknath Shinde on Saturday said that the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya was not a political issue, but a matter of pride and faith for lakhs of devotees.

Shinde, who is scheduled to visit Gadchiroli district, of which he is the guardian minister, was talking to reporters at the Nagpur airport.

When asked about a Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) functionary's recent statement that those opposing the Ram temple and subjects linked to it were doing so to achieve their political goals, Shinde said, "Ram temple is not a political issue. It is a matter of pride and faith for lakhs ofdevotees of Lord Ram."

"Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray went to Ayodhya when he was not a chief minister and later when became the CM. It is a matter of faith, devotion and pride," he added.

Replying to a query over MNS chief Raj Thackeray's statement that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government will not survive for a long time, Shinde said, "In a democracy, everybody has the right to speak and express themselves."

"But the MVA government is doing a good work under the leadership of CM Uddhav Thackeray. It has been working hard to tackle the COVID-19 situation in the state," the minister said.

BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis had on Friday said that the three MVA allies- Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress- were not a family, but were in a live-in relationship and the government will collapse on its own.

When asked about it, Shinde said, "This is not a time to play politics. We need to work together to tackle the COVID-19 challenge."&nbsp;

Shiv Sena leader and Maharashtra Minister Eknath Shinde on Saturday said that the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya was not a political issue, but a matter of pride and faith for lakhs of devotees.

Shiv Sena leader and Maharashtra Minister Eknath Shinde on Saturday said that the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya was not a political issue, but a matter of pride and faith for lakhs of devotees. Shinde, who is scheduled to visit Gadchiroli district, of which he is the guardian minister, was talking to reporters at the Nagpur airport. When asked about a Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) functionary's recent statement that those opposing the Ram temple and subjects linked to it were doing so to achieve their political goals, Shinde said, "Ram temple is not a political issue. It is a matter of pride and faith for lakhs ofdevotees of Lord Ram." "Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray went to Ayodhya when he was not a chief minister and later when became the CM. It is a matter of faith, devotion and pride," he added. Replying to a query over MNS chief Raj Thackeray's statement that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government will not survive for a long time, Shinde said, "In a democracy, everybody has the right to speak and express themselves." "But the MVA government is doing a good work under the leadership of CM Uddhav Thackeray. It has been working hard to tackle the COVID-19 situation in the state," the minister said. BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis had on Friday said that the three MVA allies- Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress- were not a family, but were in a live-in relationship and the government will collapse on its own. When asked about it, Shinde said, "This is not a time to play politics. We need to work together to tackle the COVID-19 challenge."

Ram temple not political issue, but matter of pride: Minister

Images of Lord Ram and 3D portraits of the grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will be beamed across the giant billboards at the iconic Times Square on August 5 to celebrate the temple's groundbreaking ceremony. The organisers have described the commemoration as a one-of-a-kind and historic event.

Times Square in New York is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

President of the American India Public Affairs Committee Jagdish Sewhani on Wednesday said that arrangements were being made to celebrate the historic moment in New York on August 5, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Among the prominent billboards that are being leased for the occasion are the giant Nasdaq screen and the 17,000-square-foot wrap-around LED display screen, considered among the largest continuous exterior displays in the world and the highest-resolution exterior LED screen in Times Square.

Beginning from 8 AM on August 5 till 10 PM, images of the words 'Jai Shri Ram' in Hindi and English, Lord Ram's portraits and videos, 3D portraits of the temple's design and architecture as well as pictures of the laying of the foundation stone by Modi will be displayed across several billboards, which are among the most striking and popular features of Times Square.

Sewhani told PTI that members of the Indian community will also gather at Times Square on August 5 to mark the celebration and distribute sweets.

Sewhani said that the Times Square commemoration is being made possible with the help and support of the community and sponsors.

Prime Minister Modi had announced the formation of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust in February. The Trust has invited Modi to lay the foundation stone of the grand Ram Temple.&nbsp;

Images of Lord Ram and 3D portraits of the grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will be beamed across the giant billboards at the iconic Times Square on August 5 to celebrate the temple's groundbreaking ceremony.

Images of Lord Ram and 3D portraits of the grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will be beamed across the giant billboards at the iconic Times Square on August 5 to celebrate the temple's groundbreaking ceremony. The organisers have described the commemoration as a one-of-a-kind and historic event. Times Square in New York is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. President of the American India Public Affairs Committee Jagdish Sewhani on Wednesday said that arrangements were being made to celebrate the historic moment in New York on August 5, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Among the prominent billboards that are being leased for the occasion are the giant Nasdaq screen and the 17,000-square-foot wrap-around LED display screen, considered among the largest continuous exterior displays in the world and the highest-resolution exterior LED screen in Times Square. Beginning from 8 AM on August 5 till 10 PM, images of the words 'Jai Shri Ram' in Hindi and English, Lord Ram's portraits and videos, 3D portraits of the temple's design and architecture as well as pictures of the laying of the foundation stone by Modi will be displayed across several billboards, which are among the most striking and popular features of Times Square. Sewhani told PTI that members of the Indian community will also gather at Times Square on August 5 to mark the celebration and distribute sweets. Sewhani said that the Times Square commemoration is being made possible with the help and support of the community and sponsors. Prime Minister Modi had announced the formation of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust in February. The Trust has invited Modi to lay the foundation stone of the grand Ram Temple.

Lord Ram's images to be displayed at Times Square to celebrate August 5 Ram Temple groundbreaking

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has said that a time capsule will be placed about 2,000 feet underground at the Ram Temple construction site in Ayodhya.

"The struggle for Ram Janmabhoomi, including the long-drawn case in the Supreme Court, has given a lesson for the current and upcoming generations. A time capsule will be placed about 2,000 feet down in ground at Ram Temple construction site. So, that in future anyone who wishes to study about the history of the temple, he'll get the facts related to Ram Janmabhoomi, so that no new controversy can arise," ANI quoted, Kameshwar Chaupal, Member, Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, as saying.

The time capsule will be placed inside a Tamra Patra (copper plate) before being placed below the site, he added.

“Water from sacred rivers and soil from teerths (pilgrim places), where Lord Ram visited, will be used during the abhisheka in bhoomi pujan, said the Trust member. Volunteers are sending them from across the country to Ayodhya, he added.

Veteran BJP leaders LK Advani, MM Joshi and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat are among those being invited to the 'bhoomi pujan' ceremony of Ram temple in Ayodhya on August 5 which will be shown live by Doordarshan, trustees of the temple said.

According to the experts the Lord Ram temple will be made from stones, while iron and steel will not be used.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has said that a time capsule will be placed about 2,000 feet underground at the Ram Temple construction site in Ayodhya.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has said that a time capsule will be placed about 2,000 feet underground at the Ram Temple construction site in Ayodhya. "The struggle for Ram Janmabhoomi, including the long-drawn case in the Supreme Court, has given a lesson for the current and upcoming generations. A time capsule will be placed about 2,000 feet down in ground at Ram Temple construction site. So, that in future anyone who wishes to study about the history of the temple, he'll get the facts related to Ram Janmabhoomi, so that no new controversy can arise," ANI quoted, Kameshwar Chaupal, Member, Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, as saying. The time capsule will be placed inside a Tamra Patra (copper plate) before being placed below the site, he added. “Water from sacred rivers and soil from teerths (pilgrim places), where Lord Ram visited, will be used during the abhisheka in bhoomi pujan, said the Trust member. Volunteers are sending them from across the country to Ayodhya, he added. Veteran BJP leaders LK Advani, MM Joshi and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat are among those being invited to the 'bhoomi pujan' ceremony of Ram temple in Ayodhya on August 5 which will be shown live by Doordarshan, trustees of the temple said. According to the experts the Lord Ram temple will be made from stones, while iron and steel will not be used. (With inputs from agencies)

Time capsule to be placed 2,000 feet under Ram Mandir site in Ayodhya

The construction of the Ram temple here is likely to start next month and the temple trust president has sent an invite to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to grace the occasion of its foundation stone laying ceremony, said Ayodhya seers on Thursday.

A tentative programme for the construction of the temple is likely to be decided in the meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust here on Saturday, they said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-trust-members-set-to-meet-on-july-18-in-ayodhya-310656">Ram temple trust members set to meet on July 18 in Ayodhya</a>

"Trust's president Nritya Gopal Das has sent a letter to the prime minister, inviting him to conduct the Bhumi Pujan of Ram Mandir on the occasion of its foundation laying ceremony,"&nbsp;said Mahant Kamal Nayan Das, the official spokesperson of the Trust president.

There is, however, no clarity as of now on prime minister's presence on the occasion, he said, adding a clearer picture is likely to emerge after the July 18 meeting.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat too is expected to be present during the Bhumi Pujan, he said.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi's former principal secretary Nripendra Mishra, also the chairman of the construction committee of the temple trust, visited Ayodhya on Thursday along with BSF's former director general KK Sharma, the security adviser of the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust, and met various members of the Ram Temple Trust, set up as per the directions of the apex court.

The meeting was held in the presence of various local authorities at the Circuit House here and attended by trust secretary Champat Rai and members Anil Mishra and Bimlendra Mishra among others.

Trust president Mahant Nritya Gopal Das and member Mahant Dinendra Das, who live in Ayodhya itself, however, were not present in the meeting.&nbsp;

The construction of the Ram temple here is likely to start next month and the temple trust president has sent an invite to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to grace the occasion of its foundation stone laying ceremony, said Ayodhya seers on Thursday.

The construction of the Ram temple here is likely to start next month and the temple trust president has sent an invite to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to grace the occasion of its foundation stone laying ceremony, said Ayodhya seers on Thursday. A tentative programme for the construction of the temple is likely to be decided in the meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust here on Saturday, they said. Also read | Ram temple trust members set to meet on July 18 in Ayodhya "Trust's president Nritya Gopal Das has sent a letter to the prime minister, inviting him to conduct the Bhumi Pujan of Ram Mandir on the occasion of its foundation laying ceremony," said Mahant Kamal Nayan Das, the official spokesperson of the Trust president. There is, however, no clarity as of now on prime minister's presence on the occasion, he said, adding a clearer picture is likely to emerge after the July 18 meeting. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat too is expected to be present during the Bhumi Pujan, he said. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi's former principal secretary Nripendra Mishra, also the chairman of the construction committee of the temple trust, visited Ayodhya on Thursday along with BSF's former director general KK Sharma, the security adviser of the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust, and met various members of the Ram Temple Trust, set up as per the directions of the apex court. The meeting was held in the presence of various local authorities at the Circuit House here and attended by trust secretary Champat Rai and members Anil Mishra and Bimlendra Mishra among others. Trust president Mahant Nritya Gopal Das and member Mahant Dinendra Das, who live in Ayodhya itself, however, were not present in the meeting.

Ram temple construction likely to start next month: Trust chief's spokesperson

Mahant Kamal Nayan Das, spokesperson for president of Shri Ram Janambhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, said on Friday that the trust members are scheduled to meet on July 18 in Ayodhya for the purpose of construction of Ram temple.

"Trust members will meet on July 18 in Ayodhya. The purpose will be the construction of Ram temple. We want that (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi Ji should visit here once so that construction begins," said Mahant Kamal Nayan Das.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-temple-remains-and-idol-residues-found-in-ayodhya-300141">In pictures: Temple remains and idol residues found in Ayodhya</a>

Earlier on Wednesday, Nritya Gopal Das said that they have requested the Prime Minister to inaugurate the construction activities at the temple site in Ayodhya.

"We have written a letter to the Prime Minister requesting him to visit Ayodhya and inaugurate the construction activities of Ram temple. Pooja and other rituals have been ongoing for three months at the site," Das told ANI here.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-ram-janambhoomi-tirath-kshetra-trust-formed-pm-modi-informs-lok-sabha-278744">Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra trust formed: PM Modi informs Lok Sabha</a>

"We just want him to come and we will ensure that there is no crowding," he said.

In March this year, the 'Ram Lalla'&nbsp;idol was shifted to a temporary structure near Manas Bhawan in Ram Janmabhoomi premises, till the completion of the construction of Ram temple.

The Supreme Court had on November 9 last year directed the central government to hand over the site at Ayodhya for the construction of a temple and set up a trust in its verdict on the Ayodhya issue.

The apex court had also directed the government to give a suitable land measuring five acres to the Sunni Waqf Board.&nbsp;

Mahant Kamal Nayan Das, spokesperson for president of Shri Ram Janambhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, said on Friday that the trust members are scheduled to meet on July 18 in Ayodhya for the purpose of construction of Ram temple.

Mahant Kamal Nayan Das, spokesperson for president of Shri Ram Janambhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, said on Friday that the trust members are scheduled to meet on July 18 in Ayodhya for the purpose of construction of Ram temple. "Trust members will meet on July 18 in Ayodhya. The purpose will be the construction of Ram temple. We want that (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi Ji should visit here once so that construction begins," said Mahant Kamal Nayan Das. In pictures: Temple remains and idol residues found in Ayodhya Earlier on Wednesday, Nritya Gopal Das said that they have requested the Prime Minister to inaugurate the construction activities at the temple site in Ayodhya. "We have written a letter to the Prime Minister requesting him to visit Ayodhya and inaugurate the construction activities of Ram temple. Pooja and other rituals have been ongoing for three months at the site," Das told ANI here. Also read| Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra trust formed: PM Modi informs Lok Sabha "We just want him to come and we will ensure that there is no crowding," he said. In March this year, the 'Ram Lalla' idol was shifted to a temporary structure near Manas Bhawan in Ram Janmabhoomi premises, till the completion of the construction of Ram temple. The Supreme Court had on November 9 last year directed the central government to hand over the site at Ayodhya for the construction of a temple and set up a trust in its verdict on the Ayodhya issue. The apex court had also directed the government to give a suitable land measuring five acres to the Sunni Waqf Board.

Ram temple trust members set to meet on July 18 in Ayodhya

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-mandir-will-be-constructed-under-pm-modis-leadership-uddhav-thackeray-248301">Narendra Modi</a> informed the Lok Sabha today that the government had constituted a trust for the development of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-dismisses-all-review-petitions-in-ayodhya-case-267868">Also Read: Supreme Court dismisses all review petitions in Ayodhya case</a>

"We have readied a scheme for the development of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. A trust has been formed, it is called 'Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra," the Prime Minister said in the Lok Sabha.

"I am pleased to announce that a significant decision has been taken to follow the directives of the Supreme Court. As per the directions of the Supreme Court, the cabinet has prepared a detailed plan for the construction of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya," the prime minister said.

"As per the direction of the top court, a proposal for a Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra has been passed by the cabinet," PM Modi added.

Expanding on PM's announcement, home minister Amit Shah said that there would fifteen trustees in Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in which "one will always be from the Dalit community."

"For such an unprecedented decision that strengthens social harmony, I thank PM Narendra Modi," Amit Shah added.

Last year, India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/six-review-pleas-filed-in-supreme-court-over-ayodhya-land-verdict-266711">Supreme Court </a>had cleared the way for the construction of the Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya and had directed the Centre to allot a separate five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board to build a mosque. 
&nbsp; 
In December last year, India's highest court had dismissed all eighteen Ayodhya review petitions while upholding the November 9 judgement.

The five-judge Supreme Court bench led by ex-CJI Ranjan Gogoi had said the entire disputed land spread over 2.7 acres will be handed over to a trust formed by the government, which will monitor the construction of a Ram temple at the site.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi informed the Lok Sabha today that the government had constituted a trust for the development of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Also Read: Supreme Court dismisses all review petitions in Ayodhya case "We have readied a scheme for the development of Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi informed the Lok Sabha today that the government had constituted a trust for the development of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Also Read: Supreme Court dismisses all review petitions in Ayodhya case "We have readied a scheme for the development of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. A trust has been formed, it is called 'Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra," the Prime Minister said in the Lok Sabha. "I am pleased to announce that a significant decision has been taken to follow the directives of the Supreme Court. As per the directions of the Supreme Court, the cabinet has prepared a detailed plan for the construction of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya," the prime minister said. "As per the direction of the top court, a proposal for a Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra has been passed by the cabinet," PM Modi added. Expanding on PM's announcement, home minister Amit Shah said that there would fifteen trustees in Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in which "one will always be from the Dalit community." "For such an unprecedented decision that strengthens social harmony, I thank PM Narendra Modi," Amit Shah added. Last year, India's Supreme Court had cleared the way for the construction of the Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya and had directed the Centre to allot a separate five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board to build a mosque. In December last year, India's highest court had dismissed all eighteen Ayodhya review petitions while upholding the November 9 judgement. The five-judge Supreme Court bench led by ex-CJI Ranjan Gogoi had said the entire disputed land spread over 2.7 acres will be handed over to a trust formed by the government, which will monitor the construction of a Ram temple at the site.

Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra trust formed: PM Modi informs Lok Sabha

The Supreme Court on December 12 dismissed a batch of petitions seeking review of its November 9 Ayodhya land dispute case verdict, which cleared the way for construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site.

Supreme Court dismisses all review petitions in Ayodhya verdict

A total of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jamiat-ulema-e-hind-files-review-petition-against-ayodhya-verdict-265738">six petitions </a>were filed on Friday challenging the Supreme Court`s November 9 decision granting ownership rights to Hindus parties in Ramjanmbhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute case.

While five review petitions were filed by people supported by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPBL), one has been filed by Peace Party of India. Mufti Hasbullah, Moulana Mahfoozur Rehman, Misbahuddin, Mohammad Umar and Haji Nahboob filed review petitions through advocates on record (AORs) MR Shamshad, Shakil Ahmad Syed, Irshad Ahmad and Fuzail Ahmad Ayyubi.

All of these petitioners are supported by the AIMPBL.In a press release, AIMPBL said, "Muslim Personal Board General Secretary Mohammad Wali Rahmani expressed his satisfaction and extended gratitude and thanks to Rajiv Dhavan and other senior counsels and AORs.

"Rajiv Dhavan had appeared for Muslim parties in the Ramjanmbhoomi-Babri Masjid land title dispute suit and has recently been sacked by the AIMPBL. "Title could not have been given to Hindu parties on the basis of exclusive possession of entire site which never existed at any point in time with the Hindus, since it is admitted that Muslims entered and prayed at the site till 16th December 1949 and were later prevented from doing so because of the attachment while unfairly permitting Hindu worship following criminal trespass," one of the petitions read.

It further said, "The November 9 judgment erred in accepting the juristic personality of the idol entitled it to the middle dome of the courtyard after holding that the idol was illegally and forcibly put there. An idol, as the deity, cannot be simultaneously illegally placed and legally valid to claim the title."

"The Judgment in Review condones serious illegalities of destruction, criminal trespass and violation of rule of law including damaging the mosque and eventually destroying it," the review plea further said, adding that the court erred in not considering that there was a dedication of the mosque which was self-evident from the inscriptions, read petitions. On November 9, the apex court had directed for setting up of a trust to construct Ram Temple and provide five-acre land to Muslims in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A total of six petitions were filed on Friday challenging the Supreme Court`s November 9 decision granting ownership rights to Hindus parties in Ramjanmbhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute case.

A total of six petitions were filed on Friday challenging the Supreme Court`s November 9 decision granting ownership rights to Hindus parties in Ramjanmbhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute case. While five review petitions were filed by people supported by the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPBL), one has been filed by Peace Party of India. Mufti Hasbullah, Moulana Mahfoozur Rehman, Misbahuddin, Mohammad Umar and Haji Nahboob filed review petitions through advocates on record (AORs) MR Shamshad, Shakil Ahmad Syed, Irshad Ahmad and Fuzail Ahmad Ayyubi. All of these petitioners are supported by the AIMPBL.In a press release, AIMPBL said, "Muslim Personal Board General Secretary Mohammad Wali Rahmani expressed his satisfaction and extended gratitude and thanks to Rajiv Dhavan and other senior counsels and AORs. "Rajiv Dhavan had appeared for Muslim parties in the Ramjanmbhoomi-Babri Masjid land title dispute suit and has recently been sacked by the AIMPBL. "Title could not have been given to Hindu parties on the basis of exclusive possession of entire site which never existed at any point in time with the Hindus, since it is admitted that Muslims entered and prayed at the site till 16th December 1949 and were later prevented from doing so because of the attachment while unfairly permitting Hindu worship following criminal trespass," one of the petitions read. It further said, "The November 9 judgment erred in accepting the juristic personality of the idol entitled it to the middle dome of the courtyard after holding that the idol was illegally and forcibly put there. An idol, as the deity, cannot be simultaneously illegally placed and legally valid to claim the title." "The Judgment in Review condones serious illegalities of destruction, criminal trespass and violation of rule of law including damaging the mosque and eventually destroying it," the review plea further said, adding that the court erred in not considering that there was a dedication of the mosque which was self-evident from the inscriptions, read petitions. On November 9, the apex court had directed for setting up of a trust to construct Ram Temple and provide five-acre land to Muslims in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.

Six review pleas filed in Supreme Court against Ayodhya land verdict

The government should bring an ordinance to construct Ram temple, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday in Ayodhya, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has the courage to do so and there would be no one to stop it.

Thackeray offered prayers at the makeshift Ram Lalla temple along with his son Aditya and 18 newly-elected lawmakers of his party. The Shiv Sena has said the visit was to fulfil the promise Thackeray made last November to come to Ayodhya again after the elections.

"The case is in court for many years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has courage. If the government takes the decision, there is no one to stop it. Not only Shiv Sena but Hindus of the whole world are also with this," Uddhav said while addressing a press conference after his visit to the Ram Lalla (or infant Ram) temple.

"The government should bring an ordinance for construction of Ram temple. The issue concerns all Hindus and the temple has to be constructed at the earliest," he said, raising the slogan of "Kanoon banao, mandir banao (formulate law and construct temple)".

Maharashtra will be going to polls later this year and the visit is being seen as an attempt by the Shive Sena to put pressure on ally BJP on the Ram temple issue. But Sena has maintained that Thackeray's visit should not be seen through the electoral lens.

"For us, Ram temple is a matter of faith and not politics," Thackeray said.

The title suit over the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site is being heard by the Supreme Court.

The government should bring an ordinance to construct Ram temple, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday in Ayodhya, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has the courage to do so and there would be no one to stop it.

The government should bring an ordinance to construct Ram temple, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday in Ayodhya, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has the courage to do so and there would be no one to stop it. Thackeray offered prayers at the makeshift Ram Lalla temple along with his son Aditya and 18 newly-elected lawmakers of his party. The Shiv Sena has said the visit was to fulfil the promise Thackeray made last November to come to Ayodhya again after the elections. "The case is in court for many years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has courage. If the government takes the decision, there is no one to stop it. Not only Shiv Sena but Hindus of the whole world are also with this," Uddhav said while addressing a press conference after his visit to the Ram Lalla (or infant Ram) temple. "The government should bring an ordinance for construction of Ram temple. The issue concerns all Hindus and the temple has to be constructed at the earliest," he said, raising the slogan of "Kanoon banao, mandir banao (formulate law and construct temple)". Maharashtra will be going to polls later this year and the visit is being seen as an attempt by the Shive Sena to put pressure on ally BJP on the Ram temple issue. But Sena has maintained that Thackeray's visit should not be seen through the electoral lens. "For us, Ram temple is a matter of faith and not politics," Thackeray said. The title suit over the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site is being heard by the Supreme Court.

PM Narendra Modi has courage, should bring ordinance to construct Ram temple: Uddhav Thackeray in Ayodhya 

Describing Congress as the only party which had taken serious steps in the past towards construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, AICC general secretary Harish Rawat said Friday that the party will try its best to fulfill the demand if it comes to power at the Centre after the Lok Sabha polls.

"My statement on Ayodhya is already in public domain. I have been saying that if elected to power at the Centre, the congress will try its best to build a Ram temple there. My stand on the issue should also be considered as the party's view," Rawat said at a press conference here.

He said even senior BJP leader Subramanian Swamy had acknowledged the fact during an interaction with him that it was the Congress which had made serious efforts towards construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya twice while in power.

Accusing the BJP of doing politics over the issue, he said the Centre should play the role of facilitator on the construction of a temple.

Targeting the BJP over the Pulwama terror attack, Rawat said the saffron party was giving the tag of being a nationalist only to Prime Minister Narendra Modi which was wrong.

"Why is only Prime Minister Modi being reckoned as a nationalist. I have strong objection to it. Every citizen of India is a nationalist. I am also a nationalist and so are you," he said, adding that the entire nation stands together over the martyrdom of the soldiers.

Reacting to the budget for Uttarakhand tabled by the state government, the former chief minister expressed disappointment over it saying there was nothing new in it except that some old proposals moved by his government had been incorporated into it under new names.

He said the scheme of reviving NGOs which was introduced during his tenure has been incorporated into the budget under the name of Deendayal Upadhyay.

"I want to ask how many NGOs the BJP government has revived during its tenure? which was the main objective of the scheme," he said. 
"Growth rate is racing up like the bullet train but agricultural growth rate is at its lowest which is a matter of concern," he said.&nbsp;

Describing Congress as the only party which had taken serious steps in the past towards construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, AICC general secretary Harish Rawat said Friday that the party will try its best to fulfill the demand if it comes to power at the Centre after the Lok Sabha polls.

Describing Congress as the only party which had taken serious steps in the past towards construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, AICC general secretary Harish Rawat said Friday that the party will try its best to fulfill the demand if it comes to power at the Centre after the Lok Sabha polls. "My statement on Ayodhya is already in public domain. I have been saying that if elected to power at the Centre, the congress will try its best to build a Ram temple there. My stand on the issue should also be considered as the party's view," Rawat said at a press conference here. He said even senior BJP leader Subramanian Swamy had acknowledged the fact during an interaction with him that it was the Congress which had made serious efforts towards construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya twice while in power. Accusing the BJP of doing politics over the issue, he said the Centre should play the role of facilitator on the construction of a temple. Targeting the BJP over the Pulwama terror attack, Rawat said the saffron party was giving the tag of being a nationalist only to Prime Minister Narendra Modi which was wrong. "Why is only Prime Minister Modi being reckoned as a nationalist. I have strong objection to it. Every citizen of India is a nationalist. I am also a nationalist and so are you," he said, adding that the entire nation stands together over the martyrdom of the soldiers. Reacting to the budget for Uttarakhand tabled by the state government, the former chief minister expressed disappointment over it saying there was nothing new in it except that some old proposals moved by his government had been incorporated into it under new names. He said the scheme of reviving NGOs which was introduced during his tenure has been incorporated into the budget under the name of Deendayal Upadhyay. "I want to ask how many NGOs the BJP government has revived during its tenure? which was the main objective of the scheme," he said. "Growth rate is racing up like the bullet train but agricultural growth rate is at its lowest which is a matter of concern," he said.

Cong will try to build Ram temple if elected to power: Harish Rawat

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) General Secretary Ram Madhav on Sunday underlined that the Centre would take steps within its powers once the Supreme Court`s judgment on Ram Janmabhoomi case comes.

At the same time, Madhav said that the central government will respect the judicial process and is committed to building the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

"The saints are not angry but are insisting there should be some forward movement on Ram temple issue. We are equally committed and we are with the saints on the question of building Ram temple there. We are fully committed to building a magnificent (Ram) temple in Ayodhya," he told ANI.

Madhav expressed hope that the ruling on the Ram temple issue would come soon."But as government, we have to respect the judicial process, as the matter is before the Supreme Court. We are hoping that the judgment on this matter comes soon. Once the judgment comes, the government will do whatever is possible within its powers to facilitate construction of the temple there," he added.

The Centre on Tuesday sought direction to release 67 acres acquired land out of which 0.313 acres is disputed. The top court on Monday had cancelled the hearing in the Ayodhya title suit, which was slated for January 29 by a five-judge bench due to the unavailability of one of the judges, Justice SA Bobde. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2010, the Allahabad High Court had divided the disputed land in Ayodhya into three parts for each of the parties — the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) General Secretary Ram Madhav on Sunday underlined that the Centre would take steps within its powers once the Supreme Court`s judgment on Ram Janmabhoomi case comes.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) General Secretary Ram Madhav on Sunday underlined that the Centre would take steps within its powers once the Supreme Court`s judgment on Ram Janmabhoomi case comes. At the same time, Madhav said that the central government will respect the judicial process and is committed to building the Ram temple in Ayodhya. "The saints are not angry but are insisting there should be some forward movement on Ram temple issue. We are equally committed and we are with the saints on the question of building Ram temple there. We are fully committed to building a magnificent (Ram) temple in Ayodhya," he told ANI. Madhav expressed hope that the ruling on the Ram temple issue would come soon."But as government, we have to respect the judicial process, as the matter is before the Supreme Court. We are hoping that the judgment on this matter comes soon. Once the judgment comes, the government will do whatever is possible within its powers to facilitate construction of the temple there," he added. The Centre on Tuesday sought direction to release 67 acres acquired land out of which 0.313 acres is disputed. The top court on Monday had cancelled the hearing in the Ayodhya title suit, which was slated for January 29 by a five-judge bench due to the unavailability of one of the judges, Justice SA Bobde. In 2010, the Allahabad High Court had divided the disputed land in Ayodhya into three parts for each of the parties — the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla.

Ram temple issue: Government to take steps within its powers once Supreme Court ruling comes, says Ram Madhav

A conglomerate of saints on Wednesday said the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya will start on February 21.

Swami Swaroopanand Saraswati said the 'Dharam sansad', after a three-day meeting in Prayagraj, decided that foundation stone for the temple will be laid on February 21. He said the saints and those mobilised for the effort would not be deterred by arrests or any other kind of obstacles.&nbsp;

The decision came a day after the government approached the Supreme Court for permission to restore the "excess" land surrounding the disputed portion in Ayodhya to Ram Janambhoomi Nyas.

The government, in a petition, sought direction for releasing to the Nyas 67 acres, which it had acquired about two-and-a-half decades back, leaving untouched 0.313 acres of disputed.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar later said the government “wants to give the land back to Nyas to build Ram temple there”. He said the government expects the sanction to be given immediately as there has been “too much delay” on the issue which is 70-year-old.

“The government has in-principle decided to restore the land” to the Nyas, Javadekar told reporters in Prayagraj, hours after the writ petition was filed in the top court.

“The land has to be given to the Nyas,” he said, adding the Centre is not touching as of now 0.313 acres of land which is disputed. The government move came against the backdrop of Ram Janambhoomi Nyas making an application to the government of India, demanding the return of the undisputed part of the land to it.

Government sources said its move is a part of the constitutional route that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP National President Amit Shah have spoken about.

The sources said the petition was in pursuance to an earlier Supreme Court judgement by which the government was allowed to take a policy decision with regard to 67 acres of undisputed land.

In 1994, a five-judge Supreme Court bench had held that a mosque was not an “essential part of the practice of the religion of Islam” and that namaz could be offered anywhere and hence, “its acquisition (by the state) is not prohibited by the provisions in the Constitution of India”.

The sources said the Government of India has exercised its right created by the court itself and has shown fairness by itself proposing - leaving - (with the view to give - the extent of land required). The architecture created by the court in Ismail Farooqui case provides the government with a window to adopt such measure, they said.

"The central government was duty bound as per para 49-59 of the Ismail Farooqui judgement. The judgement says that the government can take a policy decision and there need not be any judicial scrutiny", according to the sources.

The sources also claimed that the Ismail Farooqui judgement is clear that the Muslims are not interested beyond the disputed area and do not lay any claim over the area acquired beyond .313 acres.&nbsp;

It is also mentioned in para 49 of the judgment that the title of Hindus not in dispute.

Recently, the Prime Minister had said that any decision on an Ordinance on the Ram temple can be considered only after the judicial process gets over.

Significantly, the government filed the petition on a day when a new five-judge bench was to hear the Ayodhya case before it was cancelled due to unavailability of one of the judges Justice S A Bobde.

The apex court, on January 25, constituted a new five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justice Ashok Bhushan, Justice Abdul Nazeer, Justice SA Bobde and Justice DY Chandrachud to hear the Ayodhya case.

In 2010, the Allahabad High Court had divided the disputed land in Ayodhya into three parts for each of the parties — the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla.

Welcoming the government petition, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, "Now we must get permission to work on the undisputed land."

He said the petition is in favour of the country.

"The dispute has been going on for many years. My government has been saying this from the beginning. An application has been submitted by the Centre... We welcome this move of the central government. This was needed for the country's prestige," said Adityanath while addressing the media after holding a Cabinet meeting in Prayagraj, where the Kumbh Mela is underway.

A conglomerate of saints on Wednesday said the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya will start on February 21. Swami Swaroopanand Saraswati said the 'Dharam sansad', after a three-day meeting in Prayagraj, decided that foundation stone for the temple will be laid on February 21.

A conglomerate of saints on Wednesday said the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya will start on February 21. Swami Swaroopanand Saraswati said the 'Dharam sansad', after a three-day meeting in Prayagraj, decided that foundation stone for the temple will be laid on February 21. He said the saints and those mobilised for the effort would not be deterred by arrests or any other kind of obstacles. The decision came a day after the government approached the Supreme Court for permission to restore the "excess" land surrounding the disputed portion in Ayodhya to Ram Janambhoomi Nyas. The government, in a petition, sought direction for releasing to the Nyas 67 acres, which it had acquired about two-and-a-half decades back, leaving untouched 0.313 acres of disputed. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar later said the government “wants to give the land back to Nyas to build Ram temple there”. He said the government expects the sanction to be given immediately as there has been “too much delay” on the issue which is 70-year-old. “The government has in-principle decided to restore the land” to the Nyas, Javadekar told reporters in Prayagraj, hours after the writ petition was filed in the top court. “The land has to be given to the Nyas,” he said, adding the Centre is not touching as of now 0.313 acres of land which is disputed. The government move came against the backdrop of Ram Janambhoomi Nyas making an application to the government of India, demanding the return of the undisputed part of the land to it. Government sources said its move is a part of the constitutional route that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP National President Amit Shah have spoken about. The sources said the petition was in pursuance to an earlier Supreme Court judgement by which the government was allowed to take a policy decision with regard to 67 acres of undisputed land. In 1994, a five-judge Supreme Court bench had held that a mosque was not an “essential part of the practice of the religion of Islam” and that namaz could be offered anywhere and hence, “its acquisition (by the state) is not prohibited by the provisions in the Constitution of India”. The sources said the Government of India has exercised its right created by the court itself and has shown fairness by itself proposing - leaving - (with the view to give - the extent of land required). The architecture created by the court in Ismail Farooqui case provides the government with a window to adopt such measure, they said. "The central government was duty bound as per para 49-59 of the Ismail Farooqui judgement. The judgement says that the government can take a policy decision and there need not be any judicial scrutiny", according to the sources. The sources also claimed that the Ismail Farooqui judgement is clear that the Muslims are not interested beyond the disputed area and do not lay any claim over the area acquired beyond .313 acres. It is also mentioned in para 49 of the judgment that the title of Hindus not in dispute. Recently, the Prime Minister had said that any decision on an Ordinance on the Ram temple can be considered only after the judicial process gets over. Significantly, the government filed the petition on a day when a new five-judge bench was to hear the Ayodhya case before it was cancelled due to unavailability of one of the judges Justice S A Bobde. The apex court, on January 25, constituted a new five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justice Ashok Bhushan, Justice Abdul Nazeer, Justice SA Bobde and Justice DY Chandrachud to hear the Ayodhya case. In 2010, the Allahabad High Court had divided the disputed land in Ayodhya into three parts for each of the parties — the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla. Welcoming the government petition, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, "Now we must get permission to work on the undisputed land." He said the petition is in favour of the country. "The dispute has been going on for many years. My government has been saying this from the beginning. An application has been submitted by the Centre... We welcome this move of the central government. This was needed for the country's prestige," said Adityanath while addressing the media after holding a Cabinet meeting in Prayagraj, where the Kumbh Mela is underway.

Will lay foundation stone of Ram Temple on February 21: Swami Swaroopanand Saraswati

RSS executive head Bhaiyyaji Joshi has expressed confidence that the Ram temple will be constructed in Ayodhya by the time of next 'Kumbh' in 2025, the Sangh said in a statement on Friday.

In a bid to "contextualise" the comments, the RSS in a statement issued by spokesperson Arun Kumar said Joshi had made these remarks on Thursday at the ongoing Kumbh in Praygraj in Uttar Pradesh.

"When Kumbh is again held after six years in 2025, the construction of Ram temple, which is a symbol of India's national honour, will be completed and the nation will move towards prosperity," the spokesperson quoted Joshi as saying.

Joshi, who is number two in the hierarchy of the Sangh, made these remarks at the time when its allied organisation VHP is demanding the government to enact a law which paves the way for construction of temple in Ayodhya.

The Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute is scheduled for hearing on January 29 in the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

In Varanasi, Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha said that not just the BJP but the majority people of this country wants Ram temple to be built in Ayodhya at the earliest.

Sinha said the government will build the temple as per the guidelines laid down in the Constitution.

RSS executive head Bhaiyyaji Joshi has expressed confidence that the Ram temple will be constructed in Ayodhya by the time of next 'Kumbh' in 2025, the Sangh said in a statement on Friday.

RSS executive head Bhaiyyaji Joshi has expressed confidence that the Ram temple will be constructed in Ayodhya by the time of next 'Kumbh' in 2025, the Sangh said in a statement on Friday. In a bid to "contextualise" the comments, the RSS in a statement issued by spokesperson Arun Kumar said Joshi had made these remarks on Thursday at the ongoing Kumbh in Praygraj in Uttar Pradesh. "When Kumbh is again held after six years in 2025, the construction of Ram temple, which is a symbol of India's national honour, will be completed and the nation will move towards prosperity," the spokesperson quoted Joshi as saying. Joshi, who is number two in the hierarchy of the Sangh, made these remarks at the time when its allied organisation VHP is demanding the government to enact a law which paves the way for construction of temple in Ayodhya. The Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute is scheduled for hearing on January 29 in the Supreme Court. In Varanasi, Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha said that not just the BJP but the majority people of this country wants Ram temple to be built in Ayodhya at the earliest. Sinha said the government will build the temple as per the guidelines laid down in the Constitution.

Ram temple will be constructed by 2025, says RSS

RSS general secretary Bhaiya Ji Joshi has again brought the Ayodhya temple issue to the fore.

Weeks after the issue receded from the news headlines, he told the press that the Ram temple should be built before the next Kumbh, which is set six years from now. Asked about the time gap, he said, ”if construction starts immediately, then the temple would be ready by 2025.”

The case relating to the Ram temple is still pending in the Supreme Court, which has not bowed to the demand of political parties for day-to-day hearings on the matter.

After its defeat in three north Indian states in recent elections, the BJP has resurrected Ayodhya issue -- which is sub judice -- with much fanfare. It is the clamour for the temple that had pitchforked the BJP to India's political centre-stage in the 1990s.

By 1998, the issue had fizzled out and during the general election of 2014, the Ram temple was not even a core campaign issue for BJP.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an interview to a news agency had scotched speculation of immediate legislative intervention to hasten the building of the Ram temple. He had said that the government will await the supreme court's verdict. As of now, a makeshift structure exists where the deity of Lord Ram stands.

Despite the prime minister's categorical assertion, the RSS and cadres of the BJP have taken a contrarian position with a view to improving their prospects in the coming general election.

In the absence of any wave, the BJP is expected to face strong anti-incumbency in Hindi heartland of the country.

Insiders have told WION that Ram Mandir is an issue which binds BJP workers together. However, no construction can take place until the Supreme Court gives its verdict in the long-pending case. The RSS and seers inclined towards BKP want to keep the issue alive till the parliamentary elections.

RSS general secretary Bhaiya Ji Joshi has again brought the Ayodhya temple issue to the fore. Weeks after the issue receded from the news headlines, he told the press that the Ram temple should be built before the next Kumbh, which is set six years from now.

RSS general secretary Bhaiya Ji Joshi has again brought the Ayodhya temple issue to the fore. Weeks after the issue receded from the news headlines, he told the press that the Ram temple should be built before the next Kumbh, which is set six years from now. Asked about the time gap, he said, ”if construction starts immediately, then the temple would be ready by 2025.” The case relating to the Ram temple is still pending in the Supreme Court, which has not bowed to the demand of political parties for day-to-day hearings on the matter. After its defeat in three north Indian states in recent elections, the BJP has resurrected Ayodhya issue -- which is sub judice -- with much fanfare. It is the clamour for the temple that had pitchforked the BJP to India's political centre-stage in the 1990s. By 1998, the issue had fizzled out and during the general election of 2014, the Ram temple was not even a core campaign issue for BJP. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an interview to a news agency had scotched speculation of immediate legislative intervention to hasten the building of the Ram temple. He had said that the government will await the supreme court's verdict. As of now, a makeshift structure exists where the deity of Lord Ram stands. Despite the prime minister's categorical assertion, the RSS and cadres of the BJP have taken a contrarian position with a view to improving their prospects in the coming general election. In the absence of any wave, the BJP is expected to face strong anti-incumbency in Hindi heartland of the country. Insiders have told WION that Ram Mandir is an issue which binds BJP workers together. However, no construction can take place until the Supreme Court gives its verdict in the long-pending case. The RSS and seers inclined towards BKP want to keep the issue alive till the parliamentary elections.

As elections near, Ram temple back as electoral agenda

Ram Janmbhoomi Trust Chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das on Monday said construction of a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-ram-temple-cant-be-built-during-bjp-govt-tenure-when-will-it-be-asks-shiv-sena-188068"> grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya </a>should start at the earliest and hopes of crores of devotees are with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to get this issue resolved.

He also said seers would take a "concrete decision" on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/whenever-ram-temple-is-built-in-ayodhya-it-will-be-by-us-yogi-adityanath-186043">the temple issue</a> at a 'Dharma Sansad' from January 31-February 1 during the 'Kumbh Mela'.

"The grand temple construction should start soon as hopes of crores of Ram bhakts (devotees) still are with Modi. The extension of dates by the Supreme Court is emotionally hurting Hindus, who feel it should be considered (by the court). For past 70 years, the matter is pending in courts. He should get justice now," Mahant said in a statement here.

The Supreme Court on Friday had said an "appropriate bench" on January 10 will fix the date of hearing in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land title dispute case.

On the same day, the court also dismissed a fresh plea that demanded an urgent hearing on a day-to-day basis in the Ayodhya land dispute matter.

The petition was PIL filed by advocate Harinath Ram, who had submitted that in view of the inordinate delay in the adjudication of the matter and in the prevailing sentiments surrounding, the Ayodhya land dispute matter should be given a hearing on priority.

"Not only us, but the entire Hindu community hopes that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will ensure that the matter is resolved and pay real tributes to 'karsewaks' (volunteers) killed by Mulayam Singh Yadav government in 1990," Mahant said.

On a call given by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), a large number of 'karsewaks' had assembled in Ayodhya near the disputed site and several of them lost lives after Yadav, then the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh ordered police firing on October 30, 1990.

Later, Yadav had said the decision to order police firing was 'painful', but he had no other option to maintain peace in the country.

Attacking the Congress and Babri mosque supporters for creating hurdles in the temple construction, the Mahant said, "I ask them not to waste time and money of Hindu community."

Ram Janmbhoomi Trust Chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das said seers would take a 'concrete decision' on the temple issue at a 'Dharma Sansad' from January 31-February 1 during the 'Kumbh Mela'.

Ram Janmbhoomi Trust Chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das on Monday said construction of a grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya should start at the earliest and hopes of crores of devotees are with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to get this issue resolved. He also said seers would take a "concrete decision" on the temple issue at a 'Dharma Sansad' from January 31-February 1 during the 'Kumbh Mela'. "The grand temple construction should start soon as hopes of crores of Ram bhakts (devotees) still are with Modi. The extension of dates by the Supreme Court is emotionally hurting Hindus, who feel it should be considered (by the court). For past 70 years, the matter is pending in courts. He should get justice now," Mahant said in a statement here. The Supreme Court on Friday had said an "appropriate bench" on January 10 will fix the date of hearing in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land title dispute case. On the same day, the court also dismissed a fresh plea that demanded an urgent hearing on a day-to-day basis in the Ayodhya land dispute matter. The petition was PIL filed by advocate Harinath Ram, who had submitted that in view of the inordinate delay in the adjudication of the matter and in the prevailing sentiments surrounding, the Ayodhya land dispute matter should be given a hearing on priority. "Not only us, but the entire Hindu community hopes that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will ensure that the matter is resolved and pay real tributes to 'karsewaks' (volunteers) killed by Mulayam Singh Yadav government in 1990," Mahant said. On a call given by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), a large number of 'karsewaks' had assembled in Ayodhya near the disputed site and several of them lost lives after Yadav, then the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh ordered police firing on October 30, 1990. Later, Yadav had said the decision to order police firing was 'painful', but he had no other option to maintain peace in the country. Attacking the Congress and Babri mosque supporters for creating hurdles in the temple construction, the Mahant said, "I ask them not to waste time and money of Hindu community."

Ram temple construction should start at earliest, delay 'emotionally hurting Hindus': Mahant

In a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Shiv Sena Thursday said it wondered when the Ram temple could be constructed in Ayodhya if not during the tenure of the current BJP-led majority government.&nbsp;

It said if the Ram temple cannot be built before 2019 (polls), it will be like betraying people of the country, for which the BJP and the RSS would have to apologise to them.

The Sena, an ally of the BJP at the Centre and in Maharashtra, slammed Modi for his comment in a recent interview, broadcast by several TV channels, that any government action on the temple construction can happen only after the judicial process is over.

“He (Modi) came to power in the name of Ram, however, according to him, Lord Ram is not bigger than law (RPT Lord Ram is not bigger than law). The question now is if the temple cannot be constructed in the majority government, when will it ever be,” the Sena asked in an editorial in party mouthpiece ‘Saamana’.

The Modi government got a magnificent statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel constructed in Gujarat, but the prime minister did not show the courage of ‘sardar’ over the Ram temple issue, it said, asserting that this would be recorded in the pages of history. The agitation for the Ram temple began in 1991-92 and hundreds of ‘kar sevaks’ lost their lives, it noted.

“Who did this massacre and why? While hundreds of Hindu kar sevaks died, the subsequent (Mumbai) bomb blasts led to the killing of hundreds of people from both sides (Hindu and Muslim communities). If the Supreme Court had to take the decision, why this massacre and bloodshed?” it asked.

The Uddhav Thackeray-led party further sought to know whether the BJP and the RSS were ready to take responsibility for those killings and bloodshed. “The way the Congress had to apologise for the massacre of Sikhs (after the anti-Sikh riots in 1984), we have to understand the sentiments of those who demand an apology (from the BJP) for the massacre of Hindus,” it said.

Further attacking Modi over his interview in which he defended his government’s decision of demonetisation in 2016, the Marathi daily said if note ban was not a shock and people had been warned a year before it was done, “who exactly were those people”?

“Those who lost their lives standing in bank queues and those who lost employment, were they not citizens?” it further asked.

In remarks laced with sarcasm, the Sena said if according to Modi, the upcoming general elections would be between people and the ‘Mahagathbandhan’ (the proposed anti-BJP alliance), “did people of Iran vote for the BJP in 2014?” “The people of five states who voted against the party (in the recent Assembly polls), are they not citizens of this country,” the Sena queried.

In a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Shiv Sena Thursday said it wondered when the Ram temple could be constructed in Ayodhya if not during the tenure of the current BJP-led majority government.

In a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Shiv Sena Thursday said it wondered when the Ram temple could be constructed in Ayodhya if not during the tenure of the current BJP-led majority government. It said if the Ram temple cannot be built before 2019 (polls), it will be like betraying people of the country, for which the BJP and the RSS would have to apologise to them. The Sena, an ally of the BJP at the Centre and in Maharashtra, slammed Modi for his comment in a recent interview, broadcast by several TV channels, that any government action on the temple construction can happen only after the judicial process is over. “He (Modi) came to power in the name of Ram, however, according to him, Lord Ram is not bigger than law (RPT Lord Ram is not bigger than law). The question now is if the temple cannot be constructed in the majority government, when will it ever be,” the Sena asked in an editorial in party mouthpiece ‘Saamana’. The Modi government got a magnificent statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel constructed in Gujarat, but the prime minister did not show the courage of ‘sardar’ over the Ram temple issue, it said, asserting that this would be recorded in the pages of history. The agitation for the Ram temple began in 1991-92 and hundreds of ‘kar sevaks’ lost their lives, it noted. “Who did this massacre and why? While hundreds of Hindu kar sevaks died, the subsequent (Mumbai) bomb blasts led to the killing of hundreds of people from both sides (Hindu and Muslim communities). If the Supreme Court had to take the decision, why this massacre and bloodshed?” it asked. The Uddhav Thackeray-led party further sought to know whether the BJP and the RSS were ready to take responsibility for those killings and bloodshed. “The way the Congress had to apologise for the massacre of Sikhs (after the anti-Sikh riots in 1984), we have to understand the sentiments of those who demand an apology (from the BJP) for the massacre of Hindus,” it said. Further attacking Modi over his interview in which he defended his government’s decision of demonetisation in 2016, the Marathi daily said if note ban was not a shock and people had been warned a year before it was done, “who exactly were those people”? “Those who lost their lives standing in bank queues and those who lost employment, were they not citizens?” it further asked. In remarks laced with sarcasm, the Sena said if according to Modi, the upcoming general elections would be between people and the ‘Mahagathbandhan’ (the proposed anti-BJP alliance), “did people of Iran vote for the BJP in 2014?” “The people of five states who voted against the party (in the recent Assembly polls), are they not citizens of this country,” the Sena queried.

If Ram temple can’t be built during BJP govt tenure, when will it be, asks Shiv Sena

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Sunday said whenever Ram temple is constructed at Ayodhya it would be only by "us" and no one else and termed Hindu culture as India's only culture.&nbsp;

In an apparent reference to the issue, Adityanath said: "Some people here were speaking about Ram Janmabhoomi. Friends, whosoever does this job or whenever this job is done, this job will be done by us, no one else will be able to do so".&nbsp;

He, however, did not elaborate who would undertake the work.

Addressing a gathering here on the occasion of Yuva Kumbh, Adityanath said, "India is a nation, and it has only one culture. India has a thought (soch). Here languages, castes, regions, eating habits, dialects may be different.

From a political point of view, there can be differences in India, but the country has one culture, which is&nbsp;known as "Hindu culture. And, all of us should feel proud about it," he said.

Pointing towards Congress president Rahul Gandhi, the UP Chief Minister said, "Those who used to consider&nbsp;Ram and Krishna as myth, are making attempts to flash their janeu (sacred thread) and tell their gotra to mislead people (Jo log Ram aur Krsihna ko mithak maante rahe hai, unn logo dwaraa janeu dikhaakar aur gotra bataakar bharmaane kaa prayaas kiyaa jaa raha hai)."&nbsp;

Without naming anyone, Adityanath said, "We have the opportunity of understanding these conspiracies, which represent the negativities in the country and making an effort to push the country towards disintegration. Preparations will be made to hatch this conspiracy at every level, but it is important that we have to remain alert".

On employment generation in the state, the Chief Minister process is on to recruit 69,000 teachers and 50,000?policemen in the state, which will be completed in the initial month of 2019.&nbsp;

He said the One District, One Product scheme will generate jobs for 20 lakh youth in the next 5 years and that an investment climate was being created.

Adityanath along with UP Governor Ram Naik participated in the inaugural session of the Yuva Kumbh.

Adityanath also said, "Kumbh is the symbol of India's unity and integrity, and its spirit is that youth power should be used for nation building. The state government will make efforts to provide all possible facilities to pilgrims at the Kumbh. The state government will also establish grand statue of Bharadwaj Muni and Goddess Saraswati in Prayagraj."

Speaking on the occasion Ram Naik said, "The world has now started to realise the strength of India The 2019 Kumbh in Praygraj will introduce the world with India's cultural greatness."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Sunday said whenever Ram temple is constructed at Ayodhya it would be only by "us" and no one else and termed Hindu culture as India's only culture.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Sunday said whenever Ram temple is constructed at Ayodhya it would be only by "us" and no one else and termed Hindu culture as India's only culture. In an apparent reference to the issue, Adityanath said: "Some people here were speaking about Ram Janmabhoomi. Friends, whosoever does this job or whenever this job is done, this job will be done by us, no one else will be able to do so". He, however, did not elaborate who would undertake the work. Addressing a gathering here on the occasion of Yuva Kumbh, Adityanath said, "India is a nation, and it has only one culture. India has a thought (soch). Here languages, castes, regions, eating habits, dialects may be different. From a political point of view, there can be differences in India, but the country has one culture, which is known as "Hindu culture. And, all of us should feel proud about it," he said. Pointing towards Congress president Rahul Gandhi, the UP Chief Minister said, "Those who used to consider Ram and Krishna as myth, are making attempts to flash their janeu (sacred thread) and tell their gotra to mislead people (Jo log Ram aur Krsihna ko mithak maante rahe hai, unn logo dwaraa janeu dikhaakar aur gotra bataakar bharmaane kaa prayaas kiyaa jaa raha hai)." Without naming anyone, Adityanath said, "We have the opportunity of understanding these conspiracies, which represent the negativities in the country and making an effort to push the country towards disintegration. Preparations will be made to hatch this conspiracy at every level, but it is important that we have to remain alert". On employment generation in the state, the Chief Minister process is on to recruit 69,000 teachers and 50,000?policemen in the state, which will be completed in the initial month of 2019. He said the One District, One Product scheme will generate jobs for 20 lakh youth in the next 5 years and that an investment climate was being created. Adityanath along with UP Governor Ram Naik participated in the inaugural session of the Yuva Kumbh. Adityanath also said, "Kumbh is the symbol of India's unity and integrity, and its spirit is that youth power should be used for nation building. The state government will make efforts to provide all possible facilities to pilgrims at the Kumbh. The state government will also establish grand statue of Bharadwaj Muni and Goddess Saraswati in Prayagraj." Speaking on the occasion Ram Naik said, "The world has now started to realise the strength of India The 2019 Kumbh in Praygraj will introduce the world with India's cultural greatness."

'Whenever Ram temple is built in Ayodhya it will be by us': Yogi Adityanath

Key NDA ally Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) on Wednesday made public its unease with the BJP, saying it had digressed to "non-issues" like Ram temple and demanded urgent steps to return to the "real issue" of development.

LJP leader Chirag Paswan, while being critical of the BJP, praised Congress President Rahul Gandhi, saying he had raised "real" issues of the youth and farmers, which fetched his party victory in the recently-held Assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Chirag Paswan, the son of LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan, told ANI that the BJP lost the Assembly elections because it failed to address the issues of farmers and youth unemployment and emphasized on Ram temple only.

"We have few concerns. All the allies have their concerns. It's for the biggest party in our alliance, the BJP, to address the concerns," he said.

He specified that seat-sharing "is not an issue at all" and "It will be too early to talk about going out of the alliance."

At the same time, he said, "The NDA was voted to power in 2014 on the issue of 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' (cooperation to all, development for all). The youth, the farmers had supported our government. But recently, non-issues have dominated over the real issues, because of which we had to suffer losses in these (Assembly) elections."

The 35-year-old MP from Bihar said, "The youth have no jobs, farmers are committing suicide and are indebted. The result of three states proves that it's important for the BJP to address these concerns, which the BJP is not being doing."

Emphasising that the "agenda of our government is and should be development," he said, "when the agenda gets diverted and other issues like Ram Mandir start taking over, such failures are bound."

He said the LJP has put forth its views before the BJP considering itself a "life partner" of the NDA and expressed hope that "our issues will be addressed at the earliest."

He underlined that there is an urgent need for the BJP to return to the issue of development like in 2014 by keeping way the issues like Ram temple.

He said the BJP and its allies need to restrategise their policy ahead of the Lok Sabha elections due by May next year.

Referring to the recent Assembly polls, Paswan said Ram temple and Hanuman were made issues while on the other hand, the opposition raised the voice for farmers and the youth, which gave them benefits.

"We are not against the Ram temple. That is in the manifesto of the BJP," he said.

Talking about Rahul Gandhi, he said, "There has definitely been a positive change in him."

He said credit must be given to him for the Congress party's victories after a long time.

He said Gandhi has been criticised several times for his party's defeat in elections but now since under his leadership, the party has been victorious, he should be praised.

"If you criticise someone, you should also appreciate them when they perform well. They chose issues well," Paswan said about Gandhi.

He said Gandhi raised "real issues" as he spoke about farmers and the youth, which benefitted the Congress in the elections."The manner in which they raised the issue of farmers and unemployment, I feel they chose well and we stayed tangled in religion and temples. I urge the government that we should focus once again solely on development in the time to come," Paswan said.&nbsp;

Key NDA ally Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) on Wednesday made public its unease with the BJP, saying it had digressed to "non-issues" like Ram temple and demanded urgent steps to return to the "real issue" of development.

Key NDA ally Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) on Wednesday made public its unease with the BJP, saying it had digressed to "non-issues" like Ram temple and demanded urgent steps to return to the "real issue" of development. LJP leader Chirag Paswan, while being critical of the BJP, praised Congress President Rahul Gandhi, saying he had raised "real" issues of the youth and farmers, which fetched his party victory in the recently-held Assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Chirag Paswan, the son of LJP chief Ram Vilas Paswan, told ANI that the BJP lost the Assembly elections because it failed to address the issues of farmers and youth unemployment and emphasized on Ram temple only. "We have few concerns. All the allies have their concerns. It's for the biggest party in our alliance, the BJP, to address the concerns," he said. He specified that seat-sharing "is not an issue at all" and "It will be too early to talk about going out of the alliance." At the same time, he said, "The NDA was voted to power in 2014 on the issue of 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' (cooperation to all, development for all). The youth, the farmers had supported our government. But recently, non-issues have dominated over the real issues, because of which we had to suffer losses in these (Assembly) elections." The 35-year-old MP from Bihar said, "The youth have no jobs, farmers are committing suicide and are indebted. The result of three states proves that it's important for the BJP to address these concerns, which the BJP is not being doing." Emphasising that the "agenda of our government is and should be development," he said, "when the agenda gets diverted and other issues like Ram Mandir start taking over, such failures are bound." He said the LJP has put forth its views before the BJP considering itself a "life partner" of the NDA and expressed hope that "our issues will be addressed at the earliest." He underlined that there is an urgent need for the BJP to return to the issue of development like in 2014 by keeping way the issues like Ram temple. He said the BJP and its allies need to restrategise their policy ahead of the Lok Sabha elections due by May next year. Referring to the recent Assembly polls, Paswan said Ram temple and Hanuman were made issues while on the other hand, the opposition raised the voice for farmers and the youth, which gave them benefits. "We are not against the Ram temple. That is in the manifesto of the BJP," he said. Talking about Rahul Gandhi, he said, "There has definitely been a positive change in him." He said credit must be given to him for the Congress party's victories after a long time. He said Gandhi has been criticised several times for his party's defeat in elections but now since under his leadership, the party has been victorious, he should be praised. "If you criticise someone, you should also appreciate them when they perform well. They chose issues well," Paswan said about Gandhi. He said Gandhi raised "real issues" as he spoke about farmers and the youth, which benefitted the Congress in the elections."The manner in which they raised the issue of farmers and unemployment, I feel they chose well and we stayed tangled in religion and temples. I urge the government that we should focus once again solely on development in the time to come," Paswan said.

LJP makes public its unease with BJP over Ram temple

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday told an all-party meet that the government was ready to discuss all issues of national importance in the Winter session of Parliament as the Congress asserted that the opposition will press for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the Rafale jet deal.

NDA ally Shiv Sena also pitched for a law on construction of a Ram temple at Ayodhya during the meeting, attended by floor leaders of various political parties from Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and convened by the government a day ahead of the Winter session.&nbsp;

Asserting that government is always receptive to the issues raised by parties, the Prime Minister said the government and the opposition have to cooperate with each other so that Parliament functions smoothly which is in public interest.

Briefing reporters on the nearly two-hour long meeting, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said all parties were in favour of a productive session and the government is always ready to discuss any issue as permitted under rules.

Shiv Sena representative in the meeting Chandrakant Khaire said his party would not allow parliament to function if the government does not bring a bill for the construction of Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya.

The Sena has 18 members in Lok Sabha and three in Rajya Sabha. However, when asked about Sena's demand, Tomar did not give a specific reply and said temple issue was not on the agenda of the all-party meet.&nbsp;

After the meeting, Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad said, the opposition will press for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to probe the Rafale jet deal and raise several issues, including the misuse of probe agencies and autonomy for RBI, in the winter session.

He said the opposition will once again press for the formation of a JPC to look into the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale jet deal in which it has alleged corruption. Azad told reporters that the issue of alleged misuse of probe agencies by the government to settle political scores will also be raised.

Congress, TDP and TMC have alleged in the recent past that probe agencies including CBI and ED are being used by the government to settle a political score.&nbsp;

The opposition, he said, will take up the issue of autonomy of the Reserve Bank of India in the session.

Amid a tussle between the government and the RBI, opposition parties have accused the NDA regime of trying to damage every institution in the country by interfering in their autonomy and alleged the central bank was being forced to "open bank funding" to defaulting corporates.&nbsp;

Significantly, RBI Governor Urjit Patel quit, within hours after the all-party meeting.&nbsp;

At the meeting, Azad along with Aam Admi Party's Sanjay Singh raised the issue of the sanctity of the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM). Azad said he told the meeting that the government has to settle the EVM issue in a bid to establish the credibility of the electronic process.

The AAP leader also alleged that the sanctity of polls was "under question" in view of "manipulation" of the EVMs.&nbsp;

"I demanded paper ballots for the coming elections as there are reports about EVMs being found at highways and the house of a political leader," Singh said.

A statement from the parliamentary affairs ministry said the Prime Minister "encouraged" parties to strive to create a "constructive atmosphere" in the Winter session and to collectively address issues related to the welfare of people.&nbsp;

"It is a prime responsibility for all of us to contribute to the service of the nation and its people by ensuring smooth functioning of Parliament," the statement said quoting the Prime Minister.&nbsp;

"There was a consensus across party lines on ensuring smooth functioning of the Parliament without disruptions and deadlocks to be resolved through constructive discussions in both the Houses," the statement said.

At the meeting, the Trinamool Congress urged the government not to rush through bills without examination in Parliament and raised issues such as the breakdown of institutions, chaos in the economy, fuel price hike and the lack of jobs.&nbsp;

Sources in TMC said that many present in the meeting suggested to the government to keep Parliament proceedings suspended between December 24 to January 1, which they claimed has been a tradition.&nbsp;

In the original schedule, Parliament will have sittings on December 24, 26 as well as on January 1. However, according to sources, the government will take a final call after considering the issue based on precedents of not having sittings&nbsp;on these dates.&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party's Ram Gopal Yadav also alleged that farmers are being "robbed" in BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh and added that Dalits and backward classes are not getting the benefits of reservation in the state.&nbsp;

"The government says that Parliament should function. We also want it to function and find solutions to these issues. But if these issues are not allowed to be raised and discussed, then the Samajwadi Party would not allow the House to run," Yadav said

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu had also convened a meeting of floor leaders of parties in the upper house for smooth conduct of proceedings.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday told an all-party meet that the government was ready to discuss all issues of national importance in the Winter session of Parliament as the Congress asserted that the opposition will press for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the Rafale jet deal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday told an all-party meet that the government was ready to discuss all issues of national importance in the Winter session of Parliament as the Congress asserted that the opposition will press for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the Rafale jet deal. NDA ally Shiv Sena also pitched for a law on construction of a Ram temple at Ayodhya during the meeting, attended by floor leaders of various political parties from Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and convened by the government a day ahead of the Winter session. Asserting that government is always receptive to the issues raised by parties, the Prime Minister said the government and the opposition have to cooperate with each other so that Parliament functions smoothly which is in public interest. Briefing reporters on the nearly two-hour long meeting, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said all parties were in favour of a productive session and the government is always ready to discuss any issue as permitted under rules. Shiv Sena representative in the meeting Chandrakant Khaire said his party would not allow parliament to function if the government does not bring a bill for the construction of Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya. The Sena has 18 members in Lok Sabha and three in Rajya Sabha. However, when asked about Sena's demand, Tomar did not give a specific reply and said temple issue was not on the agenda of the all-party meet. After the meeting, Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad said, the opposition will press for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to probe the Rafale jet deal and raise several issues, including the misuse of probe agencies and autonomy for RBI, in the winter session. He said the opposition will once again press for the formation of a JPC to look into the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale jet deal in which it has alleged corruption. Azad told reporters that the issue of alleged misuse of probe agencies by the government to settle political scores will also be raised. Congress, TDP and TMC have alleged in the recent past that probe agencies including CBI and ED are being used by the government to settle a political score. The opposition, he said, will take up the issue of autonomy of the Reserve Bank of India in the session. Amid a tussle between the government and the RBI, opposition parties have accused the NDA regime of trying to damage every institution in the country by interfering in their autonomy and alleged the central bank was being forced to "open bank funding" to defaulting corporates. Significantly, RBI Governor Urjit Patel quit, within hours after the all-party meeting. At the meeting, Azad along with Aam Admi Party's Sanjay Singh raised the issue of the sanctity of the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM). Azad said he told the meeting that the government has to settle the EVM issue in a bid to establish the credibility of the electronic process. The AAP leader also alleged that the sanctity of polls was "under question" in view of "manipulation" of the EVMs. "I demanded paper ballots for the coming elections as there are reports about EVMs being found at highways and the house of a political leader," Singh said. A statement from the parliamentary affairs ministry said the Prime Minister "encouraged" parties to strive to create a "constructive atmosphere" in the Winter session and to collectively address issues related to the welfare of people. "It is a prime responsibility for all of us to contribute to the service of the nation and its people by ensuring smooth functioning of Parliament," the statement said quoting the Prime Minister. "There was a consensus across party lines on ensuring smooth functioning of the Parliament without disruptions and deadlocks to be resolved through constructive discussions in both the Houses," the statement said. At the meeting, the Trinamool Congress urged the government not to rush through bills without examination in Parliament and raised issues such as the breakdown of institutions, chaos in the economy, fuel price hike and the lack of jobs. Sources in TMC said that many present in the meeting suggested to the government to keep Parliament proceedings suspended between December 24 to January 1, which they claimed has been a tradition. In the original schedule, Parliament will have sittings on December 24, 26 as well as on January 1. However, according to sources, the government will take a final call after considering the issue based on precedents of not having sittings on these dates. Samajwadi Party's Ram Gopal Yadav also alleged that farmers are being "robbed" in BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh and added that Dalits and backward classes are not getting the benefits of reservation in the state. "The government says that Parliament should function. We also want it to function and find solutions to these issues. But if these issues are not allowed to be raised and discussed, then the Samajwadi Party would not allow the House to run," Yadav said Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu had also convened a meeting of floor leaders of parties in the upper house for smooth conduct of proceedings.

All-party meet: PM says government ready to discuss important national issues

Days before the commencement of the Parliament’s winter session, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) will organise a massive rally Sunday demanding a bill for construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya.

The VHP has been saying that it was confident that the bill will be tabled in the upcoming winter session of Parliament for paving the way for construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya.

“The ‘dharam sansad’ – a congregation of Hindu priests – at the Ramlila ground today will be addressed by RSS’ executive head Suresh ‘Bhaiyyaji’ Joshi. It will be a massive gathering which will change the hearts of all those who are not in favour of bringing the bill for construction of a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya,” VHP’s spokesperson Vinod Bansal said here.

If in any case, the bill does not come in this winter session, then future course of action will be decided at the next ‘dharam sansad’, which will be held in Allahabad on the sidelines of ‘mahakumbh’ on January 31 and February 1, next year, its general secretary Surendra Jain said.

Besides Joshi, VHP’s president Vishnu Sadashiv Kokje and its international working president Alok Kumar will also address the rally, Bansal said, adding that various saints will also address the gathering.

The organisation has been carrying out the door-to-door campaign in the national capital and its adjoining areas for making this rally a grand success.

Days before the commencement of the Parliament’s winter session, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) will organise a massive rally Sunday demanding a bill for construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Days before the commencement of the Parliament’s winter session, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) will organise a massive rally Sunday demanding a bill for construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya. The VHP has been saying that it was confident that the bill will be tabled in the upcoming winter session of Parliament for paving the way for construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya. “The ‘dharam sansad’ – a congregation of Hindu priests – at the Ramlila ground today will be addressed by RSS’ executive head Suresh ‘Bhaiyyaji’ Joshi. It will be a massive gathering which will change the hearts of all those who are not in favour of bringing the bill for construction of a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya,” VHP’s spokesperson Vinod Bansal said here. If in any case, the bill does not come in this winter session, then future course of action will be decided at the next ‘dharam sansad’, which will be held in Allahabad on the sidelines of ‘mahakumbh’ on January 31 and February 1, next year, its general secretary Surendra Jain said. Besides Joshi, VHP’s president Vishnu Sadashiv Kokje and its international working president Alok Kumar will also address the rally, Bansal said, adding that various saints will also address the gathering. The organisation has been carrying out the door-to-door campaign in the national capital and its adjoining areas for making this rally a grand success.

VHP’s rally in Delhi today: Demand of bill for Ram Temple construction on agenda

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-vhp-rally-in-delhi-those-in-power-told-to-fulfil-demand-of-temple-in-ayodhya-182661">At VHP rally in Delhi, 'those in power' told to 'fulfil </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-vhp-rally-in-delhi-those-in-power-told-to-fulfil-demand-of-temple-in-ayodhya-182661">demand</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-vhp-rally-in-delhi-those-in-power-told-to-fulfil-demand-of-temple-in-ayodhya-182661"> of temple in Ayodhya'</a>

Senior RSS leader Suresh 'Bhaiyyaji' Joshi on Sunday made a veiled attack on the BJP for not fulfilling its promise of constructing a Ram Temple in Ayodhya and demanded the Union government enact legislation, if need be, for it. 
&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/disenfranchisement-may-be-first-possible-step-after-final-nrc-officials-182670">Disenfranchisement may be </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/disenfranchisement-may-be-first-possible-step-after-final-nrc-officials-182670">first</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/disenfranchisement-may-be-first-possible-step-after-final-nrc-officials-182670"> possible step after final Assam NRC: Officials</a>

Disenfranchisement may be the first possible step against those whose names will not be part of the final list of the NRC to be published after the claims and objections window comes to an end next week, officials said Sunday.

As of now, just about 10 lakh people out of the total of 40 lakh who were excluded in the draft of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) have submitted applications for inclusion of their names in the list of Assam's citizens.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rajapaksa-bribed-parliamentarians-to-prove-majority-president-sirisena-182684">Sri Lanka President Sirisena now says Rajapaksa tried to bribe parliamentarians to prove majority</a>

President Maithripala Sirisena here on Saturday said that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa had tried to bribe politicians in order to show a majority in the country's Parliament.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-must-not-interfere-in-french-politics-foreign-minister-182686">Trump must not interfere in French politics: Foreign minister</a>

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian has said Donald Trump must not interfere in French politics.&nbsp;

"We do not take domestic American politics into account and we want that to be reciprocated," AFP quoted Jean-Yves Le Drian as telling LCI television.&nbsp;

"Leave our nation be," he added.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/all-eyes-on-macron-as-yellow-vest-protests-continue-to-hit-france-182694">All eyes on Macron as 'Yellow Vest' protests continue to hit France</a>

Calls mounted Sunday for President Emmanuel Macron to bring an end to the "yellow vest" crisis gripping France as authorities in Paris and elsewhere counted the cost of another day of violent protests and looting.&nbsp;

Authorities said the anti-Macron riots in Paris had been less violent than a week ago, with fewer injured -- but city hall said the physical damage was far worse as the protests were spread out across the capital.

Burned-out cars dotted the streets in several neighbourhoods on Sunday morning as cleaners swept up the broken glass from smashed shop windows and bus stops.

At VHP rally in Delhi, 'those in power' told to 'fulfil demand of temple in Ayodhya' Senior RSS leader Suresh 'Bhaiyyaji' Joshi on Sunday made a veiled attack on the BJP for not fulfilling its promise of constructing a Ram Temple in Ayodhya and demanded the Union government enact legislation, if need be, for it.

At VHP rally in Delhi, 'those in power' told to 'fulfil demand of temple in Ayodhya' Senior RSS leader Suresh 'Bhaiyyaji' Joshi on Sunday made a veiled attack on the BJP for not fulfilling its promise of constructing a Ram Temple in Ayodhya and demanded the Union government enact legislation, if need be, for it. Disenfranchisement may be first possible step after final Assam NRC: Officials Disenfranchisement may be the first possible step against those whose names will not be part of the final list of the NRC to be published after the claims and objections window comes to an end next week, officials said Sunday. As of now, just about 10 lakh people out of the total of 40 lakh who were excluded in the draft of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) have submitted applications for inclusion of their names in the list of Assam's citizens. Sri Lanka President Sirisena now says Rajapaksa tried to bribe parliamentarians to prove majority President Maithripala Sirisena here on Saturday said that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa had tried to bribe politicians in order to show a majority in the country's Parliament. Trump must not interfere in French politics: Foreign minister French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian has said Donald Trump must not interfere in French politics. "We do not take domestic American politics into account and we want that to be reciprocated," AFP quoted Jean-Yves Le Drian as telling LCI television. "Leave our nation be," he added. All eyes on Macron as 'Yellow Vest' protests continue to hit France Calls mounted Sunday for President Emmanuel Macron to bring an end to the "yellow vest" crisis gripping France as authorities in Paris and elsewhere counted the cost of another day of violent protests and looting. Authorities said the anti-Macron riots in Paris had been less violent than a week ago, with fewer injured -- but city hall said the physical damage was far worse as the protests were spread out across the capital. Burned-out cars dotted the streets in several neighbourhoods on Sunday morning as cleaners swept up the broken glass from smashed shop windows and bus stops.

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