A Kashmir resident, Ahmed Sheikh, was detained after allegedly attempting to offer namaz inside the Ram Mandir complex in Ayodhya.
A man from Kashmir was taken into custody after he allegedly attempted to offer namaz inside the Ram Mandir complex in Ayodhya and raised slogans when stopped, triggering concerns, officials said.
According to sources, the individual has been identified as Ahmed Sheikh, a resident of Shopian district in Kashmir. Officials said the 55-year-old man entered the high-security temple premises on Friday and, after visiting the shrine, reportedly sat near the Sita Rasoi area, where he was allegedly preparing to offer namaz.
Security personnel noticed his actions and intervened immediately. He was detained by temple security staff and later handed over to the local police for questioning. Some sources claimed that when stopped, the man allegedly raised slogans, a claim that has not been officially confirmed.
Police said investigating and intelligence agencies are questioning the man to ascertain his intent. Officials are also probing his travel details, including why he came to Ayodhya and whether anyone else was involved.
During preliminary checks, police reportedly found items such as cashews and raisins in his possession. Sources said the man reportedly told investigators that he was travelling to Ajmer.
Senior police officers and intelligence agencies are also reviewing the security arrangements at the Ram Mandir complex in the wake of the incident. The district administration and the Ram Temple Trust have so far declined to comment.
The incident comes as Ayodhya is gearing up for Makar Sankranti celebrations next week, which are expected to draw massive crowds, prompting heightened security across the temple town. It also occurred ahead of the second anniversary of the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple on January 22.(IT)
