The 6th of December is a significant date in Indian political history, marked by both the death anniversary of Dr. B R Ambedkar and the demolition of Babri Masjid. This event sparked a shift in Indian politics, with the dominant ideology being Hindutva and the caste-eradicating movement of Mandal being sidelined. Recent petitions for surveys of Muslim places of worship have reignited communal tensions and the Congress party is struggling to effectively respond to the BJP's use of social justice to propel their electoral victories. As the debate continues, questions arise around the validity and implications of the Places of Worship Act enacted during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.
The Demolition of the Babri Masjid: A Tragic Chapter in Indian History
Background
On December 6, 1992, a mob of Hindu extremists stormed the Babri Masjid, a centuries-old mosque in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India. The demolition triggered widespread violence and communal riots, leaving thousands dead and injured.
The Babri Masjid had been a religious flashpoint since 1949, when Hindu nationalists claimed it was built on the birthplace of Lord Rama, a revered Hindu deity. The ensuing legal battles and political tensions culminated in the mosque's demolition, considered one of the darkest days in Indian history.
Political Fallout
The demolition of the Babri Masjid had a profound impact on Indian politics. It marked a shift towards the dominance of Hindutva, a Hindu nationalist ideology, and the decline of the caste-eradicating movement of Mandal. The ruling Indian National Congress party was weakened by the incident, while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged as the main opposition.
Current Developments
In recent years, there have been renewed calls for a review of the Places of Worship Act enacted in 1991 to maintain the religious status of holy sites. This has reignited communal tensions and raised questions about the validity and implications of the law.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. What was the significance of the Babri Masjid demolition?
2. What was the legal aftermath of the demolition?
3. What is the current status of the Babri Masjid site?
4. What are the ongoing controversies surrounding the demolition?
5. What is the BJP's stance on the demolition?
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