Jammu Kashmir
Man from Kashmir Detained After Attempt to Offer Namaz Inside Ayodhya Ram Mandir Complex
A man from Kashmir was taken into custody on Friday after he allegedly attempted to offer namaz inside the high-security Ram Mandir complex in Ayodhya, raising concerns over a possible security breach, officials said.
The individual has been identified as Ahmed Sheikh (55), a resident of Shopian district in south Kashmir. According to sources, Sheikh entered the temple premises and, after visiting the shrine, sat near the Sita Rasoi area where he was allegedly preparing to offer prayers. Alert security personnel noticed his actions and intervened immediately.
Temple security staff detained the man and later handed him over to the local police for questioning. Some sources claimed that the man raised slogans when stopped, though officials said this claim is yet to be officially verified.
Police and intelligence agencies are questioning Sheikh to determine his intent and to assess how he gained access to sensitive areas of the heavily guarded temple complex. Investigators are also examining his travel history, including his stated reason for visiting Ayodhya and whether he had any accomplices.
During initial checks, police reportedly recovered items such as cashews and raisins from his possession. Sources said the man told investigators that he was on his way to Ajmer.
Senior police officials and intelligence agencies are reviewing the security arrangements at the Ram Mandir complex following the incident. The district administration and the Ram Temple Trust have not issued any official statement so far.
The incident comes ahead of the Makar Sankranti festivities next week, for which Ayodhya is preparing to host large crowds under heightened security measures.
