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The 500-Year-Old Story Of Ram Mandir
Mir Baqi, a general of Mughal Emperor Babur, built the Babri Masjid in 1528, triggering a 500-year debate about its placement atop the ruins of a Hindu Temple. The drama unfolded through historical events that saw the participation of the Marathas in 1751, the Nihang Sikhs’ in 1858 and the first judicial complaint filed in 1885.
Further tensions arose following the placement of ‘Ram Lalla’ idols in 1949, the mosque’s opening in 1986 and its dismantling in 1992. The legal fight finally ended in the Supreme Court’s 2019 ruling, which granted Hindus the contested territory. Later, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the Ram Mandir on August 5, 2020, and inaugurated it today on January 22, 2024, resolving a long-standing controversy.
Ram Mandir Ceremony 2024
Today, Ayodhya, also known as Saket, the birthplace of Bhagwan Shri Ram is preparing for the historic consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir. After 500 years of legal battle, the Ayodhya has transformed into a vibrant and blissful place covered with flowers and celebrations everywhere.
However, along with the vivid colours and long list of A-listers, the city has been turned into a highly shielded zone, with cutting-edge technology and modern safety precautions. The event is historically significant, obligating the authorities to prepare a multi-layered security system that includes an array of cutting-edge elements.
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Specialized Security Forces Deployment
The Special Protection Group (SPG) has cordoned off the Ram Mandir dimension, effectively sealing off the holy city. Over 13,000 snipers from the National Security Guard (NSG) and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) have been strategically stationed to maintain the greatest level of vigilance.
Entry Restricted to Invitations and Valid Passes
During this time, access to Ayodhya is highly controlled, and only those with valid invitation cards, passes, or identity cards are permitted in. This strict safeguard ensures that only authorised individuals take part in the historic ceremony.
Comprehensive Surveillance Network
Ayodhya's security system includes a network of 10,000 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras strategically located around the city. Some of these cameras include Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to improve surveillance capabilities, allowing authorities to keep a close eye on passengers' movements.
X-ray Luggage Scanners
Advanced X-ray luggage scanners have been installed to detect potential security concerns. These scanners, notably the KritiScan 100100 H type, produce real-time X-ray images that allow security professionals to properly identify forbidden items or concealed weapons.
Under Vehicle Scanning System (UVSS)
The application of UVSS technology is critical in spotting vehicles transporting hidden explosives, weapons, or dangerous materials. This cutting-edge solution, incorporated into the city's entire security framework, improved the city's ability to detect and neutralise possible threats before they occur.
Advanced Patrolling and Surveillance Drones
The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has deployed AI-equipped drones for aerial monitoring in Ayodhya. Simultaneously, anti-mine drones operating at low altitudes with spectrometer wavelength detection search the ground for mines or explosives. This technology ensures the integrity of the airspace surrounding the ceremony venue, preventing unauthorised drones from jeopardising the event's security.
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
The NDRF has multiple teams stationed in Ayodhya, each able to respond to a variety of emergencies. These teams, which are experienced in dealing with chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear disasters, give an extra layer of security and disaster response skills.
River and Border Security
Security precautions have been extended to the Saryu River, comprising power boats, NDRF and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) teams, and local boatmen. Stringent checks at international and interstate borders supplement these efforts, providing a comprehensive security blanket.
Multilingual Plain-Clothed Police Officers
Plain-clothed multilingual police officers who have received specialised soft skills training to maintain a discrete yet effective presence are present in multiple areas. Their work is critical in maintaining a smooth security operation and minimising unwanted disruptions.
As Ayodhya prepares for this historic event, these advanced security measures provide an impenetrable security blanket, demonstrating the integration of cutting-edge technology and strategic planning to protect the religious significance of the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony.
