Ayodhya

Ayodhya

India's Modi opens Ram temple built on site of demolished mosque

The city of Ayodhya in India holds immense religious significance for Hindus as it is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ram temple, which has been built on the site where a mosque once stood. This event marks the unofficial start of Modi's re-election campaign as a Hindu nationalist leader.

The construction of the Ram temple has been a contentious issue for decades, with a long-standing dispute between Hindus and Muslims over the ownership of the land. The demolition of the mosque in 1992 led to widespread riots and tensions between the two communities. However, with the Supreme Court's verdict in 2019, the path was cleared for the construction of the temple.

The consecration of the Ram temple is seen as a significant moment in India's history and has received both praise and criticism. Supporters view it as a symbol of Hindu pride and a fulfillment of a long-standing demand. Critics, on the other hand, argue that it further marginalizes the Muslim community and undermines India's secular fabric.

Regardless of differing opinions, the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the country's socio-political landscape, setting the stage for the upcoming elections and shaping the narrative of religious identity in India.