The political slugfest between the BJP and Shiv Sena has now reached Uttar Pradesh with Ram temple at Ayodhya forming the fulcrum as both parties are trying to take a lead in the vexed agenda and gain political mileage. While the BJP is trying to promote the VHP-RSS faction in supporting Dharma Sabha in Ayodhya to highlight the issue of Ram temple construction on November 25, Shiv Sena is also organising a massive programme the same day. Shiv Sena chief Udhav Thackeray will be the chief guest at that function.
The venue of Shiv Sena’s programme is not yet known as the Ayodhya administration has denied permission twice. First, the Sena wanted to hold a rally at Ram Katha Park and later at Gulab Badi in Faizabad city, about 10 kilometres from the disputed site. But authorities refused permission on the grounds of ‘safety’.
Shiv Sena leader Anil Singh said that they were expecting permission any moment and that preparations were underway for a grand show when Shiv Sena would demand for an early construction of Ram temple at Ayodhya. In the run-up, Shiv Sena has got almost all hotels/dharmshalas/lodges booked in the district. The BJP, on the other hand, is extending all help to the VHP and RSS-sponsored Dharma Sabha. Ruling party law-makers have been asked to mobilise people and resources. The VHP has claimed that 1 lakh people will attend the programme and they have plans to have around 500 saints and seers on the stage.