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Sat, 09 November 2019
CJI's courtroom witness rare sight
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23:32 CJI's courtroom witness rare sight
It was a rare sight in the Supreme Court as a large number of lawyers, litigants and media persons jostled to enter court number 1 where a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi pronounced the historic verdict in the politically and religiously sensitive Ayodhya land dispute case on Saturday.
The judgment was scheduled to be delivered at 10.30 am but lawyers representing various parties and journalists have started reaching the apex court two hours in advance.
Lawyers and scribes passed their time clicking photos.
All had to wait till 10.15 before the three doors of the CJI's courtroom were opened one by one by security personnel.
Once the entry was allowed, people lost their patience and started jostling to enter the courtroom.
The 15-minute wait in the courtroom before the five judges assembled witnessed a chaotic atmosphere and the noise level was very high.
However, once the five judges assembled on the dais, a minute before 10.30 am, normalcy started returning and Chief Justice Gogoi, before pronouncing the judgment, commanded all to maintain silence.
"I request you all to maintain silence," said the CJI and there was a pin drop silence in the majestic courtroom.
He was the first to sign the voluminous judgment followed by Justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S A Nazeer.
Before reading the operative portion of the 1,045-page of the judgment, Justice Gogoi said, "It is a unanimous judgment."
The CJI said he would take around 'half-an-hour' to read the judgment of the five-judge constitution bench.
However, reading of the judgment, which was later described by Justice Bobde as 'elaborate', went for 45 minutes.
Once the pronouncement was over and the judges left the dais, the situation prevailing before the assembly of judges returned and the noise level went up.
Some of the lawyers and litigants came out of the courtroom and raised slogans, including 'Jai Sri Ram', while some lawyers were seen deliberating about the judgement and scribes flashing newsalerts.
Team of lawyers for various parties also took group photographs on the rampart, just outside court number 1.
Later the focus shifted to the lawns of the apex court, earmarked for general public and video journalists where the supporters of temple raised slogans of 'Jai Sri Ram'. -- PTI
23:26 Ayodhya verdict proves strength of India's democracy: Yogi
Uttar Peradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday welcomed the Supreme Court verdict on Ayodhya issue, saying it proved the strength of India's constitutional system and democracy and urged people to maintain peace and harmony.
The chief minister said those who love the country have heartily appreciated the decision.
He also thanked the media for presenting the decision in a positive manner. Adityanath said the Supreme Court's decision has endorsed the resolution of 'Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat'.
The decision, he said, has been given without any discrimination of class or religion and the way people have accepted it is praiseworthy.
"The way the five judges have given this verdict unanimously and the way people have accepted it, shows that we can take the biggest decisions in most difficult circumstances by keeping each other's trust and within the constitutional boundary," the chief minister said.
He said when he visited Ayodhya for the first time after becoming the chief minister, it was clear how the city had been neglected over the years.
In the last two and half years, the city underwent development and it has once again succeeded in presenting a new perception of India and Uttar Pradesh, he said. -- PTI
22:37 Ayodhya trust likely to follow Somnath pattern
The trust for the construction of Ram temple in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya will be similar to the Somnath Temple Trust, highly placed sources in the government said on Saturday.
The sources told ANI that Ayodhya trust is likely to follow the pattern of Somnath Temple Trust that has Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Amit Shah as board members.
This comes after the Supreme Court directed the central government to make necessary arrangements for the construction of a temple at the disputed site by forming a trust and give five acres of suitable land to Sunni Waqf Board for a mosque at an alternate location in Ayodhya.
Responding to whether Ayodhya trust too would have the prime minister as a member, the government sources said, "The model would be same. However, the members would be decided by consensus and with consultations with the prime minister."
The sources also stated that there could be any number of members in the trust.
"This trust has to be formed within three months and we will sit and deliberate on who all would be made members. We need to finalise the names soon. The Somnath Temple Trust has seven members," the sources said.
In all likelihood, the trust will fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Culture, sources added. Sources in the Culture and Tourism Ministry said that the ministry has already started working on the site.
"There is a 12 km radius and we can build basic infrastructure outside that perimeter. Inside it would be various religious structures including the temple," they said.
Meanwhile, speaking to the media, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Prahlad Patel informed that the ministry is planning to bring out a book on Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) listings of evidence in the case.
"The ASI has done a commendable job and we would bring the work cited in the case in the Supreme Court in the form of a book," said the minister. -- ANI
22:04 US welcomes opening of Kartarpur corridor
The United States on Saturday welcomed the opening of the Kartarpur corridor, saying that it sees the initiative as a positive example of neighbours working together for mutual benefit.
Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday formally inaugurated the historic corridor to facilitate visa-free entry of Indian Sikh pilgrims to one of Sikhism's holiest shrines in Pakistani town of Narowal.
He welcomed the first batch of the Indian Sikh pilgrims who entered Pakistan through the corridor which links Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan, the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev, to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur.
The US 'welcomes the opening of a new border crossing' between India and Pakistan, 'the Kartarpur corridor', US State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a video posted on her official twitter handle.
"We see this as a positive example of neighbours working together for mutual benefit. The newly opened corridor is a step towards promoting greater religious freedom," she said.
Ortagus also sent her best wishes to the pilgrims crossing the border for the 550th birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev.
"It allows Indian Sikh pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib, an important Sikh house of worship just inside the Pakistan border. This impressive project will transform a remote three-acre site across a sensitive international boundary," Ortagus said.
"Congratulations to India and Pakistan on this initiative, and our best wishes to the pilgrims making the crossing for the 550th anniversary of Guru Nanak's birth," Ortagus said.
Khan inaugurated the corridor by removing a curtain that was lifted by hot air balloons in the presence of thousands of Sikhs from across the world including India. A huge 'kirpan' (dagger) was displayed at the inauguration site.
Guru Nanak Dev spent the last 18 years of his life at Kartarpur Sahib, which has now become the world's largest Sikh Gurdwara. -- PTI
21:18 MEA slams Pak over remarks on Ayodhya verdict
India hit out at Pakistan on Saturday for objecting to the timing of the Ayodhya verdict, saying Islamabad's 'pathological compulsion' to comment on its internal affairs with the obvious intent of spreading hatred is condemnable.
Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi objected to the timing of the Ayodhya verdict, which coincides with the inauguration of the Kartarpur corridor, saying he was 'deeply saddened' at the 'insensitivity' shown at such a joyous occasion.
"We reject the unwarranted and gratuitous comments made by Pakistan on the judgement of the Supreme Court of India on a civil matter that is completely internal to India," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.
"It pertains to the rule of law and equal respect for all faiths, concepts that are not part of their ethos. So, while Pakistan's lack of comprehension is not surprising, their pathological compulsion to comment on our internal affairs with the obvious intent of spreading hatred is condemnable," he said. -- PTI
21:15 Perhaps first judgment delivered on Saturday by SC
The judgment in the politically sensitive Ayodhya land dispute case is historic in more than one sense as it is perhaps for the first time in the 69-year history of the Supreme Court that a verdict was delivered on Saturday.
Judges hold court five days a week, from Monday to Friday, and in extraordinary circumstances hold hearing in courtroom on Saturdays or any other holidays.
But it was rare that Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi chose Saturday to deliver such an important judgment, a senior official of the apex court said.
"There have been hearing of cases in extraordinary circumstances on Saturdays, Sundays and even during nights. However I don't remember that any judgment has been delivered on Saturday and perhaps it is one of the rare instances," H K Juneja, the PPS to the chief justice of India, said.
He also recalled an instance relating to the demolition of the Babri mosque in Ayodhya on December 6, 1992, when then chief justice of India M N Venkatachaliah had a special sitting at his residence in the evening during which which the apex court had expressed anguish over then Uttar Pradesh chief minister Kalyan Singh failing in his promise of protecting the 16th-century domed structure.
Settling a fractious issue that goes back more than a century, the Supreme Court in a historic verdict on Saturday backed the construction of a Ram temple by a government trust at the disputed site in Ayodhya, and ruled that an alternative five-acre plot must be found for a mosque in the Hindu holy town.
Delivering a unanimous verdict on a case that has long polarised the country and frayed the secular tapestry of Indian society, a five-judge bench of the apex court headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said the faith of Hindus that Lord Ram was born at the site was undisputed, and he is symbolically the owner of the land.
Justice Gogoi is due to retire on November 17. -- PTI
20:39 VHP to raise money from public for Ram mandir
A senior Vishva Hindu Parishad leader on Saturday said the Supreme Court-mandated board of trustees will be set up on the lines of Gujarat's Somnath Trust, and the Ram temple in Ayodhya will be constructed with funds donated by the devotees.
Speaking to ANI, a senior functionary of the VHP, while explaining how the temple would be constructed, said Sardar Patel's model of Somnath temple would act as an example of how the temple would be constructed.
"As it has been clarified that the government is not incurring expenditure to build the temple, we will ask the people to donate for the temple's construction. And I can assure you, if we go to the people for donations, there would be so many that we would be overwhelmed with the response," said the VHP functionary, who did not wish to be identified.
-- ANI
20:11 LIVE! Maha guv to Fadnavis: Willing to form govt?
Following the 15-day-long impasse, Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Saturday evening asked the BJP, the single largest party in the state, to "indicate willingness and ability" to form government.
Sources close to acting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who is leader of the state BJP's legislature wing, confirmed that Fadnavis had received the letter from the governor.
The BJP won 105 seats in the October 21 elections, while the majority mark in the 288-member assembly is 145.
Its ally Shiv Sena has won 56 seats, but the two parties are bickering over chief minister's post.
According to Raj Bhavan statement, the governor asked Fadnavis to "indicate the willingness and ability of his party to form the government".
As no party had come forward to form the government, the governor decided to explore the possibility of formation of government on Saturday, the Raj Bhavan statement said.
19:40 Ayodhya verdict not according to expectations, but SC 'supreme': Jamiat
Prominent Muslim body Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind on Saturday said the Supreme Court's verdict in the Ayodhya case was not according to its expectations but asserted that the apex court ruling is 'supreme'.
Jamiat president Maulana Arshad Madani also urged Muslims to not be disappointed.
Madani appealed to the Muslims to maintain peace and harmony in the country and asked them to not take the verdict as a 'win or loss'.
This decision is not in line with the Jamiat's expectations, but the Supreme Court is 'supreme', he said in a statement.
Settling a fractious issue that goes back more than a century, the Supreme Court in a historic verdict on Saturday backed the construction of a Ram temple by a trust at the disputed site in Ayodhya, and ruled that an alternative five-acre plot must be found for a mosque in the Hindu holy town.
Jamiat sources said that it was not in favour of filing a review petition on the verdict.
Muslims should not be disappointed, they must trust Allah and keep praying and turn towards the almighty, the Jamiat chief said.
In accordance with the rights in the Constitution of India, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind have legally fought for justice till the end, Madani said.
"For this, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind had appointed prominent lawyers of the country, evidence had been collected and the translated ancient documents were presented in the court, and we did what we could...And we were hopeful that the decision would be in our favour but it could not be realised," he said. -- PTI
19:00 I stand vindicated: Advani on Ayodhya verdict
Bharatiya Janata Party patriarch Lal Krishna Advani and the most prominent figure of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement issues the following statement on the Supreme Court's verdict in the Ayodhya land dispute case:
'I join all my countrymen in wholeheartedly welcoming the historic judgment delivered by the five-member Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court today in the Ayodhya matter.
'I stand vindicated, and feel deeply blessed, that the Supreme Court has given its unanimous verdict paving the way for the construction of a magnificent temple for Lord Ram at Ram Janmabhhomi in Ayodhya.
'This is a moment of fulfilment for me because God Almighty had given me an opportunity to make my own humble contribution to the mass movement, the biggest since Indias Freedom Movement, aimed at the outcome which the Supreme Courts verdict today has made possible.
'I have always stressed that Ram and Ramayana occupy an esteemed place in Indias cultural and civilisational heritage and Ram Janmabhoomi holds a special and sacred place in the hearts of crores of our countrymen in India and abroad.
'I stand vindicated, and feel deeply blessed, that the Supreme Court has given its unanimous verdict paving the way for the construction of a magnificent temple for Lord Ram at Ram Janmabhhomi in Ayodhya.
'This is a moment of fulfilment for me because God Almighty had given me an opportunity to make my own humble contribution to the mass movement, the biggest since Indias Freedom Movement, aimed at the outcome which the Supreme Courts verdict today has made possible.
'I have always stressed that Ram and Ramayana occupy an esteemed place in Indias cultural and civilisational heritage and Ram Janmabhoomi holds a special and sacred place in the hearts of crores of our countrymen in India and abroad.
'Therefore, it is gratifying that their belief and sentiments have been respected.
'I also welcome the apex courts decision that five acres of land be given at a prominent place for the building of a mosque in Ayodhya.
'Today's judgement is the culmination of a long and contentious process that played itself out in various forums -- both judicial and non-judicial in the past many decades.
'I also welcome the apex courts decision that five acres of land be given at a prominent place for the building of a mosque in Ayodhya.
'Today's judgement is the culmination of a long and contentious process that played itself out in various forums -- both judicial and non-judicial in the past many decades.
'Now that the prolonged Mandir-Masjid dispute in Ayodhya has come to an end, the time has come to leave all contention and acrimony behind and embrace communal concord and peace.
'Towards this end, I appeal to all sections of our diverse society to work together to strengthen Indias national unity and integrity.
'In the course of the Ram Janmabhoomi Movement, I had often stated that the true purpose of constructing a Ram Mandir at Ayodhya is to construct a magnificent Rashtra Mandir -- building India as a strong, prosperous, peaceful and harmonious nation with justice for all and exclusion of none.
'In the course of the Ram Janmabhoomi Movement, I had often stated that the true purpose of constructing a Ram Mandir at Ayodhya is to construct a magnificent Rashtra Mandir -- building India as a strong, prosperous, peaceful and harmonious nation with justice for all and exclusion of none.
'Let us rededicate ourselves to that noble mission today. '
18:51 MEA briefs foreign diplomats on Ayodhya verdict
Diplomats of various countries were briefed by senior officials of the ministry of external affairs on the Supreme Court's historic verdict in the Ayodhya case on Saturday, sources said.
The Supreme Court, in its verdict pronounced earlier in the day, backed the construction of a Ram temple by a trust at the disputed site in Ayodhya, and ruled that an alternative five-acre plot be allotted for building a mosque in the Hindu holy town.
Following the verdict, top ministry officials briefed diplomats of various countries and key allies of India, sources said. It was not immediately known how many diplomats were briefed and what specifically was conveyed to them.
18:47 Ayodhya verdict: 2 booked for posting inflammatory messages
Police have booked two persons in Kochi for allegedly posting inflammatory messages on social media against the backdrop of the Supreme Court verdict in the Ayodhya land dispute case.
Police said the social media and internet monitoring cell of Cyberdome of the Kochi Commissionerate had on Friday found the two persons posting communally inflammatory messages on Facebook ahead of the judgment.
Detecting these comments on the Facebook page of another person who is followed by over 35,000 people, the cyber wing forwarded the details to S Vijayasankar, the Station House Officer of Ernakulam Central police station, for taking legal action against the duo.
The Central police registered a case on Saturday against the two under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and Kerala Police Act for allegedly promoting enmity between different groups, police said.
Meanwhile, the Ernakulam district administration banned victory processions, protests and celebrations in the district to ensure the safety and security of the general public and property.
Police have been directed to take precautionary measures to prevent such activities from being conducted in the district.
Nearly 6,000 policemen have been deployed for ensuring the people's security, officials said. -- PTI
18:23 Mum's the word: TMC silent after Ayodhya verdict
The Trinamool Congress on Saturday maintained silence on the Ayodhya verdict even as major parties of the state - the BJP, CPI(M) and the Congress came out with their reactions. Not a single leader of the ruling TMC, including party supremo Mamata Banerjee, put out a reaction on the judgement till 5 pm. The situation across the state post the verdict is peaceful and calm and no untoward incident has been reported from any part, the police said.
According to TMC sources, there has been "strict instruction" from the party top brass asking its leaders not to "utter a single word" on the judgement.
"We have been asked not to speak on this issue. Only our party supremo Mamata Banerjee will speak on it if needed. Or it will be by someone assigned by her," a senior TMC leader told PTI on condition of anonymity. -- PTI
18:13 Nov 9 is a landmark day: PM on Ayodhya verdict
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation, his first, since the Ayodhya land dispute verdict this morning.
"The whole country wanted that the Ayodhya case be heard daily, which happened and today a verdict has been delivered. This case which was going on for decades has concluded finally. After the verdict, the way every section of society, of every religion, has welcomed it is a proof of India's ancient culture and tradition of social harmony.
"There is no place for fear in new India. The Supreme Court has shown the country that the most difficult of issues can be resolved under the law, under the Constitution.
"India is the world's largest democracy and today India has shown that democracy is alive and strong. The whole nation has accepted the verdict.
"Supreme Court listened to all the sides during the hearings of this case with utmost patience & it is a matter of happiness for the entire country that the decision came with the consent of all.
"9th November is the day the Berlin Wall fell. On 9th November today the Kartarpur corridor has opened and on this day the Ayodhya verdict has been delivered. The message of 9th November is to unite, to join up and go ahead with all. It is the day to end all bitterness."
17:57 Time has come, says Rajnath on Uniform Civil Code
The time has come, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday when asked about Uniform Civil Code in the country on a day when the Supreme Court delivered landmark judgement in the Ramjanambhoomi-Babri Masjid case.
"Aa gaya samay (Time has come)," he told reporters here when asked about the UCC.
The Delhi High Court on Monday will hear a bunch of petitions seeking implementation of the UCC.
A division bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice C Harishankar will hear the matter on November 15.
The UCC would put in place a set of laws to govern the personal matters of the citizen irrespective of their religion.
In May, the court had asked the Centre and the Law Commission to file their affidavit on the PIL regarding the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code.
The Defence Minister also hailed the Supreme Court's verdict in Ayodhya case as a landmark judgement. "The verdict of the Supreme Court in the Ayodhya case is a landmark judgment. I think this will strengthen the feeling of 'Sarv Dharma Sambhav' (all religion are equal) and relations among people will be better. I appeal people should maintain peace and the verdict should not be taken as a win or loss for anyone," he said. -- PTI
17:49
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 6 pm.
17:47 'Kar sevaks who died in police firing will RIP'
Family members of Kolkata kar sevaks who died in police firing at the Ram Janmabhoomi site 29 years ago hailed the Supreme Court verdict in the Ayodhya case and said the judgement is like Diwali and Holi for them.
Ram Kothari (22) and Sharad Kothari (20) were killed in police firing during Karseva at the Ram Janmabhoomi site in Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh in 1990.
"Our entire family is very happy. We waited for 29 long years for justice. My brothers who died fighting for Ram Mandir would now rest in peace. It's like a second Diwali and Holi for all of us," Poornima, elder sister of the Kothari brothers, said on Saturday.
The Kothari brothers regularly visited the RSS shakha near their residence at Burrabazar in central Kolkata. They went to Ayodhya responding to the Vishwa Hindu Parishad's call for Kar seva, Poornima told PTI.
Several people including the Kothari brothers were killed in police firing there at that time. "Whenever the construction of Ram Mandir begins at the holy site, we will visit Ayodhya to pay homage to our brothers and all those Kar sevaks who lost their lives, she said. -- PTI
17:47 Sec 377, Aadhaar, Living Well, Sabarimala: Meet Justice Chandrachud
It has been only three-and-half years since his elevation as the judge of the Supreme Court, but Justice D Y Chandrachud has been already a part of several benches which delivered landmarks judgements in high-profile cases like the Ayodhya land dispute. Be it the matter of adultery or right to privacy, decriminalising section 377 of the IPC or the contentious Sabarimala issue or validity of Aadhaar scheme, Justice Chandrachud had penned path-breaking judgements. He was in the scheme of things for the setting up of five-judge bench from its inception to hear the Ayodhya dispute as Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi has chosen only those judges who by seniority would have become the CJI.
Justice Chandrachud by his seniority would become the CJI from November 9, 2022 to November 10, 2024. Notwithstanding these facts, Justice Chandrachud, third in seniority to Justice Gogoi and Justice S A Bobde, proactively involved himself during the Ayodhya hearing and put some searching question to the counsel for both Muslim and Hindu sides in the litigation.
Justice Chandrachud, son of longest serving Chief Justice of India Y V Chnadrachud, wrote the lead judgement for the nine-judge constitution bench in the Justice K S Puttaswamy versus Union of India case in which it was unanimously held that the right to privacy constituted a fundamental right under the Constitution.
He was also part of a five-judge Constitution bench unanimously decriminalised part of the 158-year-old colonial law under Section 377 of the IPC which criminalises consensual unnatural sex between consenting adults, saying it violated the rights to equality.
In another five-judge bench, Justice Chandrachud in a unanimous verdict held Section 497 of the Indian Penal Code which criminalised adultery, to be unconstitutional on the ground of being arbitrary, archaic and violative of the right to equality and privacy.
The judge, who was elevated to the apex court on May 13, 2016, also concurred with the majority verdict in Indian Young Lawyers Association versus State of Kerala, popularly called the Sabarimala case, in holding that the practice of prohibiting women of menstruating age from entering the Sabarimala temple was discriminatory and violative of women's fundamental rights.
However, in a strong dissent, Justice Chandrachud differed with other members of the 5-judge Constitution bench which by a majority verdict upheld the constitutional validity of the unique biometric identity number Aadhaar. Justice Chandrachud held Aadhaar to be unconstitutional and violative of fundamental rights.
Justice Chandrachud was part of the landmark judgment by a five-judge Constitution bench which recognised 'living will' made by terminally-ill patients for passive euthanasia.
He was also part of the Constitution bench which decided the tussle between the Centre and the Delhi government over the powers to administer the national capital.
Also read: How Justices Bhushan and Nazeer came to be on Ayodhya bench
17:21 ASI report on Ayodhya excavation to be a book: Minister
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) report which was submitted in the Supreme Court after excavation at the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site will be published as a book, Union Culture Minister Prahlad Patel said on Saturday.
Speaking to reporters after the apex court verdict clearing the way for the construction of the Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya, Patel congratulated the ASI team which prepared the report.
"The ASI report which till now was the property of the court will soon be published in the form of a book for the public," he said. "I am grateful to all the experts who worked on the report and also congratulate them for their efforts," he added.
The ASI excavated the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site at the direction of the Allahabad High Court in 2003. The Supreme Court said the underlying structure below the disputed site in Ayodhya was not an Islamic structure, but the ASI has not established whether a temple was demolished to build a mosque. PTI
17:11 Dilip Ghosh questions TMC's silence on Ayodhya verdict
West Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh Saturday questioned Trinamool Congress' silence on the Ayodhya verdict and said the ruling party of Bengal always prefers silence when it comes to taking a stand on issues related to national and social interests.
Hailing the Supreme Court verdict on the disputed land at Ayodhya as "historic", Ghosh said BJP and the saffrom camp had spearheaded the Ram Janambhoomi movement for a long time and would "definitely get political benefits once the temple is built".
Asked to comment on TMC leadership's silence on the apex court's verdict on Ayodhya land dispute, he said, "Whenever there is an issue pertaining to national security, the TMC leadership either goes silent or takes a stand which is completely against the interests of the nation and society. This time too the same thing has happened. I would ask them to come out clean on whether they support it (the judgement) or oppose it. I am sure they won't be able to answer my question," Ghosh said.
17:05 Bal Thackeray would have been happy: Raj on Ayodhya verdict
Welcoming the Supreme Court verdict on the Ayodhya dispute, MNS chief Raj Thackeray on Saturday said Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray would have been very happy had he been alive.
Raj, estranged nephew of the late Sena patriarch, said the verdict was the outcome of the "sacrifice" made by the karsevaks, who had participated in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement of 1990s.
"Balasaheb would have been very happy had he been alive today. I would like to thank the supreme court for delivering this judgement on the basis of facts and emotions of the people. Now, Ram mandir should be constructed as soon as possible and 'Ramrajya' (rule of Lord Ram) shall also be established," he said. -- PTI
17:02 Maha govt formation to be delayed after verdict
Government formation in Maharashtra is likely to be delayed due to the Supreme Court's Ayodhya verdict, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut hinted on Saturday. The Supreme Court on Saturday cleared the way for the construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site at Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot a 5-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a mosque. In a tweet, Raut said, "Pehle Mandir Phir Sarkar!! Ayodhya mein Mandir Maharashtra mein Sarkar... Jai ShriRam." When contacted, Raut told PTI, "Next two days, it is only Ayodhya. Nothing on government." The term of the 13th Maharashtra Assembly ends on Saturday. The BJP and the Sena, with 161 seats between them in the 288-member House, have not been able to form a government due to a stalemate on sharing of the chief minister's post. CM Devendra Fadnavis resigned on Friday and was appointed to the post in caretaker capacity. NCP president Sharad Pawar maintained the mandate was for the BJP and Sena to form a stable government.
16:59 No untoward incident reported from anywhere in UP: DGP
Amid tight security measures in place, Uttar Pradesh remained peaceful following the Supreme Court judgement in the Ayodhya land title dispute case, a senior police officer said on Saturday.
The apex court cleared the way for the construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site, and directed the Centre to allot a 5-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a mosque.
"There is no report of any untoward incident from anywhere in the state. We are keeping a close watch (on the law and order situation). Our team is on the job," UP Director General of Police O P Singh told PTI.
He said that for the first time an Emergency Operations Centre has been set up to keep an eye on reports emerging from the media, social media and other sources before and after pronouncement of the verdict in the controversial case.
The EOC has been set up at '112 headquarters', named after the emergency helpline number. "The chief minister also visited the Centre and spent time with police officials and inquired about the state's (security) situation," the DGP said. In this centre, representatives of CRPF, RPF, BSF, SSB, ITBP, CISF and GRP are also present and it will work round the clock, Additional Director General, UP-112, Asim Aurn said. -- PTI
16:54 Talibani mindset: Naqvi on Owaisi's remarks
Minority Affairs minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Saturday hit out at AIMIM chief Assaduddin Owaisi for his critical remarks on the Supreme Court's Ayodhya verdict, saying some people have a "Talibani mindset" and "no trust" in the judiciary of the country.
All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen president Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday said the Supreme court verdict on the Ram Janmbhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute case was a "victory of belief over facts." The Hyderabad MP, reacting to the apex court verdict, also said he was not satisfied with the ruling. Slamming Owaisi, Naqvi said that some people are suffering "from the disease of Talibani mindset".
"These people have no trust on the Constitution or judiciary of the country," the senior BJP leader told PTI. He said that these people should understand that the country will not allow any person to disturb our peace, harmony and brotherhood.
The Supreme Court in a unanimous verdict on Saturday cleared the way for the construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site at Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot a 5-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a mosque. -- PTI
16:37 Happy SC accepted place as Ram Janambhoomi: Ritambhara
Accused of inciting the kar sevaks along with Lal Kishenchand Advani, Dr Murli Manohar Joshi, Ashok Singhal, Uma Bharti, Vinay Katiyar and other leaders for demolishing the Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992 in Ayodhya, Sadhvi Ritambhara has a first information report against her name in the case and is currently facing trial.The Supreme Court verdict in the Ayodhya case, Ritambhara tells Rediff.com's Prasanna D Zore, is a victory for the kar sevaks who died for the cause. Read the interview here.
16:23 Sunni Waqf Board will NOT file review petition
Sunni Waqf Board lawyer Zafaryab Jilani said they will not file a review petition in the Ayodhya land dispute matter.
Jilani had said they are not satisfied with the Supreme Court verdict and would consider filing a review petition, after the Supreme Court ruled to give the disputed land in Ayodhya for a temple and five acres of alternate land to the Muslim litigants for a mosque.
While addressing the press Jilani said, "We will file a review petition if our committee agrees on it. It is our right and it is in the Supreme Court's rules as well."
The Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi has said that the central government within 3-4 months should formulate a scheme for setting up a trust and hand over the disputed site to it for construction of a temple at the site.
It also added that an alternative five acres of land at a prominent location in Ayodhya should be allotted for the construction of the mosque following consultation between the center and state government.
16:17 Justice Nazeer most sought judge in matters of religion in SC
Justice S Abdul Nazeer, the lone Muslim judge in the 5-member Constitution bench of the Supreme Court, which on Saturday delivered a historic verdict in the Ayodhya land dispute case, has been one of the most sought after judges in matters involving religion.
Justice Nazeer was also the part of the five-judge bench in the 'triple talaq' matter but had delivered a minority verdict along with then Chief Justice of India J S Khehar. By the 3:2 verdict, the apex court had held issue of 1,400 year old practice of 'triple talaq' among Muslims as illegal and unconstitutional.
However, in the Ayodhya verdict, the judge, who was elevated to the apex court from the Karnataka High Court, did not agree with the arguments of the Muslim parties and became a part of the unanimous verdict that possession of the disputed 2.77 acre land rights will be handed over to the deity Ram Lalla.
Before becoming a part of the Constitution bench in the Ayodhya case, Justice Nazeer was part of a three-judge bench, including the then Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra and Ashok Bhushan, which by 2:1 majority had declined to set up a larger bench for a relook of its 1994 verdict which had held that a "mosque is not an essential part of the practice of Islam".
The September 27, 2018 verdict by the three-judge bench had paved the way for the apex court to hear the Ayodhya land dispute case in which Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi constituted a five-judge bench to adjudicate the issue.
In the original scheme of the five-judges to hear the Ayodhya dispute, Justice Nazeer along with Justice Bhushan was not named to hear the matter. But the recusal of two judges - Justice N V Ramana and U U Lalit brought into the fold to hear the politically and religiously sensitive temple-mosque land dispute at Ayodhya.
Besides these cases, Justice Nazeer was also a part of the Supreme Court's nine-judge bench which had declared 'right to privacy' as a fundamental right in the August 2017 verdict Justice Nazeer, 61, who was enrolled as an advocate in 1983 and had practiced in the Karnataka High Court was appointed as an additional judge of the Karnataka High Court on May 12, 2003 and was made a permanent judge there in September 2004. He was was elevated as a judge of the Supreme Court on February 17, 2017. PTI
16:02 SC verdict vindication that Lord Ram was born in Ayodhya: Seer
Shankaracharya Swami Swaroopanand Saraswati on Saturday hailed the supreme court verdict on the Ayodhya dispute, which he said vindicated that Lord Ram was born in the Uttar Pradesh town.
The Supreme Court in a unanimous verdict on Saturday cleared the way for the construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site at Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot a 5-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a mosque.
"I am happy with the supreme court verdict which confirmed it (the disputed site) as the birth place of Lord Ram. There is no doubt that Shreeram was born in Ayodhya," said Saraswati, who is Shankaracharya of Jyotish and Dwarka-Sharda Peeths. -- PTI
15:51 Sonia thanks SPG for looking after family with 'dedication'
Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi writes to SPG Chief Arun Sinha after the government removed the SPG cover for her, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. She said that on behalf of the whole family she would like to express deep appreciation and gratitude to the SPG for looking after their security and wellbeing with such dedication, discretion and personal care."
The Special Protection Group security cover given to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, Rahul and daughter Priyanka was withdrawn on Friday, 28 years after the elite force's continuous deployment, and it was replaced by the 'Z-plus' security of the Central Reserve Police Force.
15:39 Reactions: Deve Gowda, Left parties
Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda on Saturday welcomed the Supreme Court verdict in the Ayodhya land dispute case. In a video message, the JD(S) supremo said, "It is a balancing decision, which I welcome."
"Only my feeling is the poor people who built the Babri Masjid about 300 to 400 years back and the people who are fighting now you cannot blame our minority friends. What happened in the past, so that is a big issue. So I don't want to go to the past," he said.
The Left parties said on Saturday that the Supreme Court's Ayodhya verdict should not be seen as a victory for any litigant and no one should indulge in any "provocative acts" in the wake of the order.
In a statement, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) said while the judgment had provided a judicial resolution to this fractious issue, there are certain premises of the judgment which are "questionable".
"The Court judgment has itself stated that the demolition of the Babri Masjid in December 1992 was a violation of law. This was a criminal act and an assault on the secular principle," the CPI(M) said. "The cases pertaining to the demolition should be expedited and the guilty punished."
15:36 Advani, Singhal lauded for Ram Janmabhoomi movement
Key Hindu leaders associated with the Ram Janmabhoomi movement lauded the contributions of late VHP stalwart Ashok Singhal and veteran BJP leader LK Advani for the success of the cause.
Senior BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi, one of the key leaders to spearhead the movement, called the Supreme Court's judgement in the case "historic" and said it should be accepted with an "open mind" by all communities.
BJP leader Uma Bharti said she met Advani to bow her head at his feet following the verdict and also praised late Vishwa Hindu Parishad stalwart Singhal for spearheading the movement. Advani changed the communal motives ascribed to the issue of nationalism and showed that it can change the country, she told reporters. The former Union minister, who was a key figure herself in the agitation, said Advani's devotion to temple cause is at the root of the BJP's success and it will be coming back to power for another term. Advani, Uma Bharti and Joshi are still facing trial in the 1992 Babri mosque demolition case.
Former RSS ideologue K N Govindacharya expressed his "extreme happiness" at the verdict, saying the country can move from "Ram temple to Ram rajya". Asked who he will give credit for the success of the movement to build the Ram temple at what is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, he said, "Lakhs of workers made sacrifices. For the leadership of the movement, I will give highest credit to Ashok Singhal and LK Advani."
Singhal was the VHP's international president for a long time and was a prominent spearhead of the movement before the BJP joined it in support.
15:26 60% of pillars of Ram temple ready: VHP
Reactions Vishva Hindu Parishad: Working president Alok Kumar said the SC order is a "decisive step towards construction of grand Ram temple in Ayodhya".
The VHP, he said, expects the central government to take speedy steps on the directions issued by the Supreme Court, including creation of a trust to build the temple. He claimed that 60 per cent of pillars and beams for the Ram temple are ready. "Today is a day of happiness for Hindus the world over," Kumar said. -- PTI
15:16 Victory of belief over facts, says upset Owaisi
AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday said the Supreme court verdict on the Babri Masjid-Ramjanmabhoomi land dispute was a "victory of belief over facts."
The Hyderabad MP, responding to the apex court verdict, also said he was not satisified with the ruling.
The Supreme Court is "indeed supreme but not infallible," he said quoting a former Chief Justice of India. The Parliamentarian was speaking to reporters in Hyderabad.
While the Supreme Court judgement was final, "we are not satsified with it," the firebrand leader added. He further said those who had demolised Babri Masjid have been asked to form a trust and start construction of a Ram Temple, which in itself is a travesty of justice, hinting at the ruling BJP at the Centre. PTI
15:13 Muslim leaders appeal for peace and harmony
Prominent Muslim leaders on Saturday appealed for peace and harmony following the Supreme Court verdict in the Ayodhya case, even as some expressed surprise over the ruling that cleared the way for a Ram Temple at the site.
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board in a tweet said the judgment is against its expectations. "We presented solid evidences to prove our stance. Our legal committee will review the judgment. We have sincerely tried to fulfil our responsibility to restore the demolished Babri Masjid," it said.
In one of the most important and most anticipated judgments in India's history, a 5-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi put an end to the more than a century old dispute that has torn the social fabric of the nation.
Navaid Hamid, president of All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat, an umbrella body of several Muslim organisations, appealed for peace and harmony. Expressing surprise over the ruling, he said that "it is a matter of concern that evidences have not been proved."
Mufti Abul Qasim Nomani, the current Mohtamim (Vice-Chancellor) of the Islamic seminary Darul Uloom Deoband, also expressed surprise over the ruling. "I was surprised to see the ruling and it's beyond my understanding. I feel there were enough evidences in favour of the mosque but these were not taken into consideration," Nomani told PTI. He also called for maintaining peace and harmony.
All India Shia Personal Law Board (AISPLB) spokesman Maulana Mirza Yasoob Abbas said he welcomes the court's ruling. "AISPLB will always stand with the All India Muslim Personal Law Board on this issue," Abbas told PTI.
Prominent Muslim scholar Maulana Abdul Hameed Noami also appealed for peace and calm. In Jaipur, the spiritual head of the Ajmer dargah welcomed the verdict and said the judiciary is supreme and everyone should respect the decision. "It is the time to present a united face before the world because entire world is looking at India today," Dargah Deewan Zainul Abedin Ali Khan said.
Iqbal Ansari, one of the litigants in the case, said he will not challenge the verdict in court. "We welcome the Supreme Court decision and the biggest happiness is that it is finally curtains down on this long pending issue," Ansari told PTI on phone from Ayodhya.
"We will not challenge the court verdict from our side," he said, adding that "we are very happy with the decision." The hearing in the politically and religiously sensitive temple-mosque land dispute in Ayodhya was the second longest proceedings in the history of the Supreme Court which had lasted for 40 days. -- PTI
Image: Paramilitary personnel stand guard at Government Women College in Jammu on Saturday. A five-judge bench of the Supreme Court including Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi delivered the verdict in Ayodhya land case.
14:52
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issues advisory to all channels and cable TV operators to strictly adhere to the Programme Code during discussion, debates and reporting.
14:49 Temple trust must ensure unity: MM Joshi
Welcoming the Supreme Court verdict in the Ayodhya land dispute case, senior BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi said the trust that will be responsible for the construction of a Ram temple would have to be considerate about keeping people united.
"I welcome the verdict. But the trust that will look after the construction of the Ram temple will have to be considerate about keeping intact unity among people," he told reporters.
Terming the judgement as "historic", the veteran BJP leader said it should be accepted with an "open mind" by all communities. In a unanimous verdict, the Supreme Court on Saturday paved the way for the construction of a Ram temple at the disputed site at Ayodhya and directed the Centre to constitute a trust within three months to build the temple.
The apex court also ruled that the Centre will allot an alternative five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a new mosque at a "prominent" place in the holy town in Uttar Pradesh. In one of the most important and most anticipated judgements in India's history, a five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi put an end to the more than a century old dispute that has torn the social fabric of the nation. -- PTI
14:40 Ayodhya hearing 2nd longest in SC's history
The hearing in the politically and religiously sensitive decades-old temple-mosque land dispute in Ayodhya was the second longest proceedings in the history of the Supreme Court which had lasted for 40 days.
The high voltage hearing in the Ram Janambhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute involving 2.77 acres of land had commenced on August 6 and concluded on October 16, and the apex court pronounced the verdict on Saturday. In the unanimous verdict the court cleared the way for the construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site, and directed the Centre to allot a 5-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a mosque.
In one of the most important and most anticipated judgements in India's history, a 5-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi put an end to the more than a century old dispute that has torn the social fabric of the nation.
The arguments in the matter were the second longest after the landmark Keshvanand Bharti case in 1973 during which the proceedings for propounding the doctrine of basic structure of the Constitution continued for 68 days.
On the concluding day of the marathon hearing, the bench had observed "enough is enough". The day was marked by high drama when Rajeev Dhawan, a senior counsel for the Muslim parties, tore a pictorial map provided by Hindu Mahasabha purportedly showing the exact birth place of Lord Ram in Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh.
The third longest hearing in the top court was on the validity of Aadhaar scheme and had lasted for 38 days in the top court which came into existence in 1950.
The bench, also comprising Justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S A Nazeer, had came out with schedules for Ayodhya dispute hearing more than once and the arguments were first fixed to be concluded by October 18.
That was later advanced to October 17, but on October 16, the bench decided to wrap it all up saying "enough is enough". The bench was racing against time since the verdict was to be delivered before Justice Gogoi demits office on November 17.
After wrapping up the hearing and reserving the verdict, it had granted three days to contesting parties to file written notes on 'moulding of relief' or narrowing down the issues on which the court is required to adjudicate. -- PTI
14:11 Uma Bharti hails Advani after Ayodhya verdict
With the Supreme Court clearing the way for construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya, BJP leader Uma Bharti on Saturday hailed party veteran L K Advani''s role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement as she welcomed the court's order.
"The court has given an unbiased yet, enlightened verdict. I went to Advaniji's house to touch his feet because it was because it was he who challenged pseudo-secularism and it is because of him that we have reached here today," she said.
The former Union minister, who was a key figure herself in the saffron agitation, said Advani''s devotion to temple cause is at the root of the BJP's success and it is coming back to power for another term.
Image: Uma Bharti and LK Advani in a file pic.
14:02 PM meets Dr Singh in Gurdaspur
Let me handhold you through the economic downturn: Former PM Dr Manmohan Singh seems to be saying as he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the inauguration of the Integrated Check Post of the at Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur.
Meanwhile the first 'jatha' of Sikh pilgrims enters Pakistan through the Kartarpur corridor.
13:55 PM's speech, prayers, langar at Dera Baba Nanak
In other news:
While inaugurating the Integrated Check Post of Kartarpur Corridor at Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday thanked his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan for respecting the sentiments of the people of India and said that the opening of the Kartarpur Corridor has "brought us immense happiness".
"I would like to thank the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan Niazi, for respecting the sentiments of India. The opening of Kartarpur Sahib corridor before the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devi Ji has brought us immense happiness," he said at the inauguration of the Integrated Check Post of Kartarpur Corridor at Dera Baba Nanak.
PM Modi said that it will now be easy to pay obeisance at Darbar Sahib gurudwara after the opening of Kartarpur corridor.Donning a turban, the Prime Minister said that it will be easy for pilgrims to undertake 'darshan' of the Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib with the opening of the corridor.
"I am fortunate that I am dedicating the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor to the country today. I thank all who were a part of the association of the corridor," he added.
The passenger terminal building, also known as Integrated Check Post, where pilgrims will get clearance to travel through the newly-built corridor. The ICP check post will facilitate Indian pilgrims to visit Gurudwara Kartapur Sahib in Pakistan.
Image: PM Narendra Modi, Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh and other leaders at a langar in Dera Baba Nanak, Gurdaspur.
13:46 Don't miss: P V Narasimha Rao's interview on Babri Masjid demolition
Fifteen years after his death, former prime minister P V Narasimha Rao is still vilified by many for not preventing the demolition of Babri masjid on December 6, 1992.
So much so the Congress party, to which he belonged, does not even acknowledge his existence.
But was Rao really the villain of the piece?
Was he a closet Hindu right-winger who was all along playing the Sangh Parivar's game in Ayodhya -- as his critics claim?
In a detailed interview to M D Malapat on May 11, 2004, Rao answers the many questions that still continue to swirl over his and his government's role in the demolition of Babri masjid.
A sample:
'I didn't believe in micromanaging my Cabinet colleagues. Yes, tasks were assigned to them by me, but afterwards, full freedom was given to ministers to do their job. I did not think it necessary or desirable to interfere via a hyperactive or omnipotent PMO while they were presumably doing so. The home minister was given the freedom to act in the execution of his duties, and it was my presumption that he did.'
You can read the full interview, here.
13:44 Ayodhya verdict: Yogi urges people to maintain unity, amity
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday welcomed the Supreme Court judgment on the Ayodhya land dispute and appealed to people to maintain unity and amity.
"We welcome the Supreme Court verdict. Everyone should support for unity and amity in the country. In UP, the government is committed to maintain peace and security," Adityanath tweeted in Hindi.
-- PTI
13:39 Reactions: Hindus should help build mosque, says Ramdev
Baba Ramdev: This is a historic verdict. A grand Ram temple will be built. Decision to allot alternate land to Muslim side is welcome, I believe Hindu brothers should help in the construction of the Masjid as well
13:37 Dream come true, say Ayodhya residents
Relief appeared to be the overwhelming emotion in Ayodhya as the Supreme Court pronounced its judgment on the disputed site, allotting it for the construction of a Ram temple.
Many lanes and bylanes were barricaded by the police, but elsewhere it was business as usual. In the run-up to the judgement delivered by a five-judge bench, many lanes in the town bore a deserted look. At homes, people sat glued to their television sets.
"Thank God," said Preeti Singh, a resident of Rikabganj, who was visiting a Durga temple with her children around the time the five-judge bench delivered the judgment in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute. At some places, people chanted "Jai Shri Ram' and burst crackers. Mohammed Sajid, who runs a tailoring shop, told PTI that he felt the verdict is "incomplete'. He did not wish to elaborate.
Devotees who visited the makeshift Ram Lalla temple at the disputed site appeared overwhelmed when told about the judgment. Bharat Singh was among them. He had his "darshan' around 11 am, about 30 minutes after Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had begun reading the verdict.
"I am overwhelmed and feel that my dream has come true. I feel blessed,' he said later, holding back tears. Mumbai resident Shreenarayan Shukla and Moradabad business Manish Gupta emerged smiling, their foreheads smeared with sandalwood paste.
In Hanumangari area, some youngsters chanted "Jai Shri Ram', with their parents initially telling them not to do so. Ramesh Das, 40, said, "Five hundred years of slavery have finally ended. I never expected this.' Soon, he was distributing sweets to passersby.
Calling himself a "Ram bhakt', a man dressed a Lord Hanuman hugged him. Mahant Sanjay Das of Hanumangarhi temple was seen exploding crackers.
Mahant Raju Das, a priest at the temple, said, "I welcome the SC judgement. This is a very good judgment, and I would l like to congratulate the Supreme Court and the Chief Justice."
Around Naya Ghat, it was business as usual at shops selling puja material, and worshippers visited temples that dot the area. Some foreign tourists were also seen there. At eateries there, people discussed the judgment and a handful of youngsters shouted Jai Shri Ram slogans.
Vehicles from outside Ayodhya, including those carrying media people, were being stopped a couple of kilometres ahead of the sensitive Hanumangarhi temple area. Ahead of the verdict, there was apprehension among Ayodhya resident. "We want amity. I want to open my shop and earn my livelihood. I hope there will be no problem anywhere after the verdict," Ramu, a tea-seller in Hazratganj area, said. After the verdict, vegetable seller Akram said he will go about his business. There is no tension anywhere. Whatever decision has come is welcome," he said.-- PTI
Image: A priest crosses the road at Hanuman Garhi in Ayodhya after the verdict.
13:25 Hum toh mandir banyenge: RSS chief
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's press conference on the Ayodhya land dispute verdict: "Let's unite to build a grand temple at Ayodhya. Hum toh mandir banayenge," he said.
Appealing for peace and calm he said judgment is into a victory or loss. He said there was no problem if mosque and temple coexist.
"We welcome this decision of Supreme Court. This case was going on for decades and it has reached the right conclusion. This should not be seen as a win or loss.We also welcome everyone's efforts to maintain peace and harmony in society. We should forget disputes of past and work together to build Ram temple. We wanted issue to end, this has happened," Bhagwat said.
He added that the RSS is not meant for launching agitations and that it believes in character-building, when asked whether it will now take up Mathura and Kashi issues.
13:11 AIMPLB to file review petiton
Sri Sri Ravishankar: This is a historic judgement, I welcome it. This case was going on for a long time and finally it has reached a conclusion. Peace and harmony should be maintained in society
Zafaryab Jilani, All India Muslim Personal Law Board: We will file a review petition if our committee agrees on it. It is our right and it is in Supreme Court's rules as well.
13:05 Bharat bhakti over Ram or Rahim bhakti: PM
PM Narendra Modi tweets on the Supreme Court verdict in the Ayodhya dispute case.
"The Supreme Court has delivered its verdict in the Ayodhya land dispute case. The verdict should not be looked upon as a victory or defeat. Whether it is Ram Bhakti or Rahim Bhakti, this is the time for everyone to consolidate the feelings of Bharat bhakti. I appeal to my countrymen to maintain peace, harmony and unity."
PM Modi appeals to countrymen for peace, unity and amity after SC verdict in Ayodhya case. Whether it is devotion to Ram or Rahim, now is time for everybody to strengthen devotion to India. The SC verdict in the Ayodhya case will strengthen people's faith in judicial system, he said.
Image: Prime Minister Narendra Modi sported a saffron turban on the Indian side of the Kartarpur Sahib corridor.
13:04 HM speaks to CMs to review security
Home Minister Amit Shah speaks to all Chief Ministers of the country to review the security of states and asks them to take all required measures to maintain law and order.
12:54 Amit Shah: Remain committed to united and great India
Home Minister Amit Shah: "I welcome the Supreme Court's unanimous verdict. I appeal to each and every person of all the religions to accept this verdict with simplicity for peaceful and harmonious united and great India.
The Home Minister appealed to all communities to accept the verdict and maintain peace and remain committed for 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat'.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged everyone to take the verdict with equanimity and magnanimity.
The Congress said it respects the verdict and is in favour of construction of Ram temple.
12:37 SC verdict a tribute to sacrifice made by Hindus: Togadia
Hindutva leader Pravin Togadia on Saturday welcomed the Supreme Court verdict on the Ram Janmabhoomi title suit as a "tribute" to "lakhs of Hindus" who had sacrificed their lives for a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya.
In a historic verdict, the apex court on Saturday cleared the way for the construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site at Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot a 5-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a mosque.
"I welcome the supreme court's Judgement on Ram Janmbhoomi. Building a Ram Temple at the same place where Lord Ram was born has been the demand of Hindus for more than 450 years. Lakhs of Hindus had sacrificed their lives, careers, families for it," the former VHP chief said in a statement.
"The supreme court giving the same land for Ram Temple is a tribute to that sacrifice. We welcome it happily and request the Central government to recognise this sacrifice of all. We are confident that the government would build a grand Ram temple at Ayodhya soon. We also appeal all to maintain peace while expressing joy," said Togadia who heads Antar-Rashtriya Hindu Parishad. PTI
12:26 Mahasabha: Verdict underlines unity in diversity
The Supreme Court giving Ram Lalla's birth land for the Ram Temple is a salute to the sacrifice of lakhs of workers, says former VHP chief Praveen Togadia.
Hindu Mahasabha lawyer Varun Kumar Sinha welcomed the Supreme Court's judgement in the Ayodhya title dispute case saying that the judicature has given the message of "unity in diversity."
While addressing the media outside the apex court, he said, "It is a historic judgement. With this judgement, the Supreme Court has given the message of unity in diversity."
Also, minutes after the verdict, a group of lawyers were seen sloganeering "Jai Shri Ram" outside the apex court's premises but were later stopped by the fellow lawyers and people present in the vicinity.
A five-judge constitution bench presided by Chief Justice Gogoi will shortly pronounce the verdict on a batch of petitions against an order of the Allahabad High Court which trifurcated the site between the parties -- Ramlalla Virajman, Sunni Central Waqf Board and Nirmohi Akhara.
A decade-long legal dispute is being fought by right-wing party Hindu Mahasabha, a sect of Hindu monks Nirmohi Akhara and Muslim Waqf Board over 2.77 acres of land in Ayodhya.
12:17 Accept SC verdict on Ayodhya as democratic nation: Gadkari
Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Saturday appealed to people to accept the Supreme Court verdict on the Ayodhya issue as India is a democratic country.
The apex court on Saturday cleared the way for the construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site at Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot a 5-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a mosque.
"As people of this democratic country all should accept the decision taken by the supreme court on Ayodhya. We all have faith in the judiciary. People should maintain peace and harmony," he told reporters. PTI
12:16 'No regret over SC saying Nirmohi Akhara not shebait of Ram Lalla'
The Nirmohi Akhara has no regrets over the Supreme Court saying that it is not a 'shebait' or devotee of deity Ram Lalla, a member of the outfit said after the Ayodhya verdict on Saturday.
The apex court on Saturday cleared the way for the construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site at Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot a 5-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a mosque.
"We have no regrets on this because we were batting for Ram Lalla. The court has accepted Ram Lalla's side and with this, our motive was fufilled," Nirmohi Akhara member Mahant Dharmdas told PTI.
The court has said in its verdict in the politically-sensitive case of Ram Janmbhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute in Ayodhya that the Nirmohi Akhara is not a shebait or devotee of the deity Ram Lalla. -- PTI
12:02 Govindacharya credits Singhal, Advani for success of temple movement
Former RSS ideologue K N Govindacharya, a key figure in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, on Saturday credited late VHP stalwart Ashok Singhal and veteran BJP leader LK Advani for the success of the cause.
Reacting to the Supreme Court clearing the way for the construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya, Govindacharya, one of the major strategists behind the Advani's rath yatra in 1990 in support of building a temple, expressed his "extreme happiness" at the verdict.
"I am extremely happy. Now, in three months a plan will be made for constructing the temple," he said, asserting that social harmony must be maintained so that the country can move from "Ram temple to 'Ram rajya'."
Asked who he will give credit for the success of the movement to build the Ram temple at what is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, he said, "Lakhs of workers made sacrifices. For the leadership of the movement, I will give highest credit to Ashok Singhal and L K Advani."
Singhal was Vishwa Hindu Parishad's international president for a long time and was a prominent spearhead of the movement before the BJP joined it in support. -- PTI
11:55 Sec 144 imposed in Mumbai
Update on the situation in Mumbai.
Shortly before the pronouncement of the verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title dispute case, the administration imposed Section 144 in Mumbai on Saturday.Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) prohibits an assembly of more than four people in the area.It will be in force till 11 am on November 10.
Earlier, Maharashtra Police today appealed to citizens to avoid forwarding any objectionable and unverified messages on social media and maintain peace and unity.
"Peace and unity are our biggest assets and priority. We appeal to all the citizens to avoid forwarding any objectionable, unverified messages circulating on social media. Dial 100 or reach out to your nearest police station to report any such instances #AyodhyaVerdict," Maharashtra police tweeted.
Security arrangements were stepped up across the country ahead of the decision by the apex court.The top court had reserved its verdict on the matter on October 15 after hearing the case on a day-to-day basis for 40 days. (ANI)
11:42 Not happy with Ayodhya verdict: Sunni Waqf Board
First reactions from the litigants. Zafaryab Jilani, Sunni Waqf Board Lawyer, says, "We respect the judgement but we are not satisfied. We will decide the further course of action. There are several contradictions and incorrect findings in the judgment."
Varun Kumar Sinha, Lawyer of Hindu Mahasabha: "It is a historic judgement. With this judgement, the Supreme Court has given the message of unity in diversity. "
11:37 2.77 acre land rights goes to Ram Lalla: SC
So here's the gist of the judgment, at least the important part.
The Supreme Court on Saturday cleared the way for the construction of a Ram Temple at the disputed site at Ayodhya, and directed the Centre to allot a 5-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board for building a mosque.
In one of the most important and most anticipated judgements in India's history, a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi put an end to the more than a century old dispute that has torn the social fabric of the nation.
The apex court said the mosque should be constructed at a "prominent site" and a trust should be formed within three months for the construction of the temple at the site many Hindus believe Lord Ram was born.
The site was occupied by the 16th century Babri mosque which was destroyed by Hindu kar sevaks on December 6, 1992.
The bench, also comprising Justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer, said possession of the disputed 2.77 acre land rights will handed over to the deity Ram Lalla, who is one of the three litigants in the case. The possession however will remain with a central government receiver. -- PTI
Image: Litigant of Ram Temple Mahant Dharamdas and Litigant of Babri Masjid Iqbal Ansari met ahead of the Ayodhya verdict, in Ayodhya on Friday.
11:25 Underlying structure was not an Islamic structure, says SC
More on the verdict: The Supreme Court Saturday said the underlying structure below the disputed site at Ayodhya was not an Islamic structure, but the ASI has not established whether a temple was demolished to build a mosque. The observation by a 5-judge Constitution bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, was made in its verdict in the politically sensitive case of Ram Janmbhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute in Ayodhya. The bench, also comprising Justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer, further said that terming the archeological evidence as merely an opinion would be a great disservice to the Archaeological Survey of India.
The court also said that the Hindus consider the disputed site as the birthplace of Lord Ram and even Muslims say this about that place. The faith of the Hindus that Lord Ram was born at the demolished structure is undisputed, the apex court said. The bench said the existence of Sita Rasoi, Ram Chabutra and Bhandar grih are the testimony of the religious fact of the place.
The apex court, however, said that the title cannot be established on the ground of faith, belief and they are only an indicator for deciding the dispute. -- PTI
11:21 SC: Set up trust to build Ram temple in 3 months
SC: Damage to Babri mosque was violation of law. SC dismisses plea of Nirmohi Akhara seeking control of entire disputed land. The court also asks the Centre to frame the scheme within 3 months and set up a trust for the construction of a temple. The SC asks the Centre to consider granting some kind of representation to Nirmohi Akhara in setting up of trust.
11:18 Sunni Waqf Board to be given 5 acres of land for mosque: SC
The SC says a suitable plot of 5 acres to be given to the the Sunni Waqf Board which will be used for the construction of a mosque. The Sunni land can be out of land acquired by the Centre in 1993. Possession of disputed 2.77 acre land will remain with Central government.
11:14 Ramjanmabhoomi Trust to get disputed site: SC
Important verdict: The SC says a suitable plot of 5 acres to be given to the the Sunni Waqf Board which will be used for the construction of a mosque close to the disputed site. The Sunni land can be out of land acquired by the Centre in 1993. The disputed site to be given to the Ramjanmabhoomi Nyas, which means you will have a Ram temple at the site.
11:09 Nirmohi Akhara is not a devotee of the deity Ram Lalla, says SC
The Supreme Court on Saturday said in its verdict in the politically-sensitive case of Ram Janmbhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute in Ayodhya that the Nirmohi Akhara is not a shebait or devotee of the deity Ram Lalla. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said the Akhara's suit was barred by limitation. The bench also comprising Justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer further said that Ram Janmbhoomi is not a juristic person. -- PTI
11:02
Section 144 of CrPC (prohibits assembly of more than 4 people in an area) imposed in Mumbai city till 11 am tomorrow.
11:02
Evidence that Muslims never lost complete possession of the disputed land. There was no cessation of namaz or abandonment of structure by the Muslims: SC
11:01 Babri masjid not built on vacant land: SC
Ayodhya verdict: The SC lends credence to the archeological evidence on the disputed site. It says the underlying structure was not an Islamic structure. The fact that there lies a temple beneath the destroyed structure has been established by the ASI. The court says the Babri mosque was not built on vacant land. SC says that terming the archeological evidence as merely an opinion would be a great disservice to the ASI.
It said that Hindus consider this place as birthplace of lord Ram, even Muslims say this about disputed place. Faith of Hindus that Lord Rama was born at demolished structure is undisputed. But the ASI had not established whether the temple was demolished to build the mosque.
Evidence suggest Muslims offered Friday prayers at mosque which indicates they have not lost possession. Extensive nature of Hindus worshipping at outer courtyard at site has been there. Evidence suggest Hindus were in possession of outer court yard, says SC. No evidence that Muslims abandoned the outer courtyard.
10:51 Ayodhya: SC dismisses Shia Waqf Board's appeal
The Supreme Court on Saturday dismissed the appeal of the Shia Waqf Board in the politically sensitive Ram Janmbhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute case in Ayodhya and held that the land belongs to the government as per revenue records. A five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi gave a unanimous verdict dismissing the Shia Waqf Board's appeal in the case over the disputed structure. It said the disputed land was government land in the revenue records.
10:44 Jam packed CJI courtroom as SC begins delivering Ayodhya verdict
Lawyers in huge numbers have flocked to the apex court leading to the courtroom of the Chief Justice getting jam packed.
The huge rush of lawyers created difficulties for security personnel, at the three entry gates and the court room, in checking the passes, accreditation and proximity cards of scribes and lawyers. Lawyers and media persons jostled for space in the crowded court room where a lot of apex court registry officials are looking after the internal management. PTI
10:41
Devotees click selfies in front of the Lord Ram Statue at Ram Ki Paudi in Ayodhya last week.
10:39 Ayodhya: SC to pronounce unanimous judgment
The Supreme Court will pronounce an unanimous judgment in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute. A five-judge Constitution bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer, will rule on appeals against the 2010 verdict of the Allahabad High Court, which ordered a three-way division of the disputed 2.77 acres between the Nirmohi Akhara sect, the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board and Ramlalla Virajman.
10:33 CJI Gogoi starts reading Ayodhya verdict
Delhi: All five Supreme Court judges who will deliver the verdict in Ayodhya land case have reached the Supreme Court. Five-judge Supreme Court bench to shortly deliver verdict in the Ayodhya land case; Senior advocates K Parasaran, CS Vaidyanathan, Rajeev Dhawan, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and other lawyers representing different parties in the case arrive in courtroom.
CJI Gogoi has just begun reading Ayodhya verdict.
10:30 Patnaik appeals to people to accept SC judgement on Ayodhya
Odisha: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday appealed to the people to accept the judgement of the Supreme Court on the Ayodhya title dispute and ensure peace and harmony.
In a twitter post, the chief minister emphasised that the spirit of brotherhood is the hallmark of India's secular fabric.
"Ahead of #AyodhyaVerdict, appeal to everyone to accept the judgement of Honourable #SupremeCourt. Let us continue to live in peace and harmony," Patnaik said.
"The spirit of brotherhood is the hallmark of our secular fabric," the chief minister tweeted shortly before the the Supreme Court is to deliver its landmark verdict on the Ayodhya title dispute. -- PTI
10:24 Priyanka: Duty to maintain peace
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra ahead of Supreme Court Ayodhya verdict: Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra appeals to people to maintain the thousands of years old tradition of unity, social harmony and mutual love of the country. "This is Mahatma Gandhi's country. It is our duty to maintain peace and non-violence," she tweets.
10:16
Muslim devotees offer special prayers in Ahmedabad ahead of the Ayodhya verdict.
10:11 Timeline of the Ayodhya dispute
1528:
First Mughal Emperor Babar is believed to have constructed Babri Masjid
1885:
Mahant Raghbir Das moves Faizabad court seeking permission to construct a temple in the vicinity of the Babri Masjid. The plea is declined.
December 22-23, 1949:
Idols of Lord Ram is mysteriously found inside the mosque
1950:
Gopal Visharad and Ramachandra Das moves Faizabad court for permission to worship the idols
1959:
Nirmohi Akhara files plea seeking possession of the disputed land.
1961:
Central Sunni Waqf Board, U.P., moves court for declaration of title of the disputed land and removal of the idols inside the mosque.
February 1986:
Faizabad court allows Hindus to worship the idols.
August 1989:
Allahabad High Court takes over the title dispute. Orders status quo.
November 1989:
The Rajiv Gandhi government allows Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) to perform puja near the disputed site.
September 1990:
BJP leader L.K. Advani begins rath yatra
December 1992:
Kar sevaks demolish Babri Masjid. Justice Liberhan Commission appointed to probe.
1993:
P.V. Narasimha Rao government acquires 67 acres of land adjoining the disputed site. The Supreme Court upholds the acquisition in its Dr. Ismail Faruqui judgment.
April 2002:
Allahabad High Court commences hearing the title suits.
March 2003:
SC bans religious activity in the acquired lands in Mohd. Aslam @Bhurre case.
2009:
Liberhan Committee submits inquiry report.
September 30, 2010:
High Court delivers a majority judgment for three-way partition of the disputed property among Hindus, Muslims and Nirmohi Akhara.
May 2011:
SC stays the high court judgment on cross-appeals filed by the parties.
August 2017:
A three-judge Bench of the Supreme Court led by Justice Dipak Misra begins hearing the appeals. The main title issue is side-tracked. Muslim parties seek a reference of a contentious observation made in the Faruqui judgment that worshipping in mosques are not integral to Islam to a Constitution Bench. A majority judgment is pronounced declining the prayer.
January 2019:
A Constitution Bench of five judges led by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi resumes hearing the title appeals but suggests mediation first.
August 6, 2019:
Mediation committee led by former Supreme Court judge, Justice F.M.I. Kalifulla fails to draw a consensus and court hearing commences.
October 16, 2019:
After 40 days of hearings, the Constitution Bench reserves judgment
November 9, 2019:
Constitution Bench lists the appeals for judgment
Image: A wall with the inscription of the Ramayana seen inside a temple in Ayodhya, in this photograph taken October 22, 2019.
10:03 Amit Shah calls high-level security meet with Doval, IB chief
Home Minister Amit Shah calls a high level security meeting at his residence. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Intelligence Bureau Chief, Arvind Kumar, and other senior officials to attend the meeting.
10:01 RSS chief, AIMPLB to address media after verdict
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will address the media at 1 pm, following the Supreme Court verdict. The press conference will be held at Keshav Kunj parisar, Jhandewalan in Delhi. Similarly, representatives of All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) will also hold a presser at Ashoka Road following the verdict.
Image: Sea of heads: Lawyers gather outside Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi's court.
09:54 Punjab CM urges all to remain calm
Punjab: Hours before the Supreme Court is expected to deliver its verdict in the Ayodhya land dispute case, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Saturday reviewed the state's law and order situation and appealed to all to remain calm under all circumstances.
The Chief Minister, who is here for the historic Kartarpur Corridor inauguration, discussed the situation with DGP Dinkar Gupta and other senior officers.
Singh directed the officers to remain on high alert and take all steps to ensure that the state's peace and harmony is not disturbed at any cost.
According to an official spokesperson, the Chief Minister asked the police and other agencies to keep tabs on suspected trouble-makers, and to take immediate and stern action against anyone found trying to disturb Punjab's law and order.
"Peace is of utmost importance and nobody would be allowed to disturb it under any circumstances. Whatever the court's judgement, everyone should accept it and abide by it," Singh reaffirmed.
09:50 Keeping disputed site safe priority: Ayodhya DM
This is what Ayodhya District Magistrate, Anuj Kumar Jha says about security arrangements in Ayodhya: "Keeping the disputed site safe is our priority. We have made adequate arrangements for it, forces have been deployed in the city. Everything is normal in the city, we will keep an eye on negative elements."
09:46 Ayodhya verdict: Peace is the prayer of every neta
Ahead of the landmark verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi Babri Masjid land dispute case, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Saturday requested all to accept the Supreme Court's judgment and maintain peace.
"We have full faith in our judiciary. I appeal to all to accept the Supreme Court's verdict and maintain peace," he told reporters.
Meanwhile, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat will be addressing the media at 1 pm today, following Supreme Court judgment in Ayodhya land case.
A five-judge bench of the Supreme Court is scheduled to pronounce its historic verdict on a batch of a petition against the 2010 Allahabad High Court order in the Ayodhya land dispute case today.
The top court had reserved its verdict on the matter on October 15 after hearing the case on a day-to-day basis for 40 days.Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for peace and unity and said the court judgment will not be a victory or defeat for anyone. Several other prominent political leaders have also appealed to citizens to maintain peace and not believe in rumours being spread on social media.
Security has been beefed up across the country keeping in view of any untoward incident after the Supreme Court delivers its judgment in the Ayodhya case. -- ANI
Image: Security personnel being briefed at the Supreme Court premises. A five-judge bench of the Supreme Court will deliver judgement in the Ayodhya land case at 10:30 am today.
09:35 CWC to meet now to discuss Ayodhya strategy
The Congress top brass would be meeting on Saturday morning to discuss its strategy in the wake of the Ayodhya verdict by the Supreme Court.
Congress general secretary organisation KC Venugopal said the meeting of the CWC would be held tomorrow morning. It was earlier to be held on Sunday.
"The CWC meeting has been rescheduled to tomorrow 09.11.19, 0945 am at 10 Janpath. CWC members, Permanent Invitees & Special invitees will be attending the meeting," Venugopal tweeted.
The Congress working committee, the highest decision making body of the party, decides on the party strategy on crucial issues. It would discuss the party strategy to be adopted in the wake of the Supreme Court verdict on Ayodhya.
09:32 Security beefed up around SC ahead of verdict
Security in and around the Supreme Court was increased on Saturday ahead of the judgment in the politically sensitive Ram Janmbhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute case, with barricades being put on roads leading to the apex court's premises.
The Supreme Court is likely to pronounce the judgment at 10:30 am.
A strong posse of security personnel have been deployed around the court complex and vehicles and pedestrians are being subjected to full checks.
Security outside the residences of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer, who are part of the five-judge Constitution Bench, which will deliver the judgment, has also been beefed up by the Delhi police.
00:47 Ailing Sharif to fly to UK for treatment
Pakistan's ailing former prime minister Nawaz Sharif has heeded doctors' advice and given in to his family's request to fly to London for the treatment of his diseases, his daughter Maryam Nawaz said on Friday.
Speaking to the media, she said the family could not risk the 69-year-old PML-N supremo's health and has decided to send him abroad.
Maryam, 46, said she would not accompany her father as her name was still on the Exit Control List (ECL).
"Shehbaz Sharif is looking after all the boarding and lodging of the former premier. After losing my mother last year, my father is my everything now," a distraught Maryam was quoted as saying by the ARY News.
Sharif's wife Kulsoom died of throat cancer in London last year.
Maryam, who was released on bail on Wednesday by the Lahore High Court (LHC), said Sharif himself agreed to get the medical treatment abroad due to his critical health condition.
Sharif was shifted to his Jati Umra Raiwind residence in Lahore on Wednesday after his two-week stay at a Pakistani hospital for treatment of multiple diseases.
He was admitted to the Services Hospital in Lahore on October 22 from Pakistan's anti-graft body's custody after his platelets dropped to a critical low level of 2,000. -- PTI
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