The holy city of Ayodhya has been transformed into a fortress as preparations are underway for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to this city on Sunday during which he will hold a roadshow seeking support for the Bharatiya Janata Party candidates.

The prime minister’s visit will mark his first return to Ayodhya since the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony in which he oversaw the consecration of Ram Lalla on January 22 this year.

Amid heightened security measures, Prime Minister Modi is slated to conduct a grand roadshow, symbolising both political outreach and spiritual reverence. Alongside seeking support for sitting BJP MP Lallu Singh from Faizabad and candidates contesting from neighbouring constituencies, the prime minister aims to galvanise voters ahead of the crucial phase of the elections.

In anticipation of the prime minister’s arrival, Ayodhya has undergone a visual makeover, with streets adorned with vibrant flowers and stages erected to herald his reception. The municipal authorities have been diligently engaged in ensuring the cleanliness of the city, leaving no stone unturned to meet the exacting standards for the prime minister’s visit.

While administrative efforts focus on security and infrastructure, local BJP leaders are spearheading the mobilisation of crowds, recognising the pivotal role Ayodhya plays in shaping the political narrative.

 Ram Dhun Tiwari, a prominent BJP leader, expressed confidence in the overwhelming turnout, underscoring the importance of projecting a positive message to bolster the party’s electoral prospects.

In a departure from traditional public rallies, Prime Minister Modi is slated to traverse the city atop an SUV. Nevertheless, BJP workers and affiliated organisations have been diligently canvassing support, laying the groundwork for a resounding reception.

The much-anticipated roadshow, expected to span a distance of two kilometres, is scheduled for the late afternoon or evening hours, with Prime Minister Modi’s arrival at Ayodhya airport slated for 4 pm.

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Ayodhya holds profound significance, underscored by his previous engagements in the city. From addressing public gatherings during the 2019 elections to gracing the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Ram temple in August 2020, his recurrent visits underscore Ayodhya’s enduring importance in the national consciousness.