Tight security in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Ayodhya verdict

Jammu, Sep 29 (IANS) Security was tightened in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of the Allahabad High Court verdict on the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute in Ayodhya.

Additional police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in Bhaderwah, Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri, Poonch and Mendhar in Jammu and the army has been asked to be on stand by, official sources said.

The region, having a 65:35 Hindu-Muslim population ratio, is seen as communally sensitive, especially after the Amarnath land row agitation when some incidents of violence and arson were attributed to “communal elements”.

“We are here to ensure that peace and communal harmony are kept intact and we have taken adequate measures,” Ashok Gupta, inspector general of Jammu zone said. He also urged police officers Wednesday “to ensure extra vigil.”

Meanwhile, security has also been intensified in Kashmir Valley to prevent any untoward incident.