The Ram Mandir case, India’s second longest-running case, has been a topic of controversy for the past 500 years. However, in just 40 days, this historical and controversial case was finally resolved based on strong evidence presented in court. The Supreme Court, on October 14, 2019, made a landmark decision to conclude this case. This blog will provide an in-depth analysis of the Ram Mandir case, its legal journey, and the evidence that led to its resolution.
Timeline: 1528-1947
The conflict over the Ram Mandir dates back to 1528 when Mughal King Babur ordered the destruction of the original temple in Ayodhya and the construction of a mosque in its place. However, even during the existence of the Babri Masjid, Hindus continued to worship at the Ram Chabutra, a platform outside the mosque. From 1853 to 1859, tensions escalated, leading to intervention by the British government. The British government divided the Mandir area, allocating the mosque to Muslims and the surrounding area to Hindus.
Despite this settlement, conflicts persisted, and legal cases were fought over the ownership and use of the land. The situation remained unresolved until India gained independence in 1947.
Timeline: 1949-1992
In 1949, the idol of Lord Ram was surreptitiously placed inside the Babri Masjid, leading to a renewed conflict between the two communities. The Uttar Pradesh government sealed the site, prohibiting entry to the Ram Janmabhoomi. Subsequently, petitions were filed in the Faizabad court, questioning the restriction on the right to worship. The case continued in the court, with various Hindu and Muslim organizations filing petitions to establish their rights over the land.
In 1986, the Faizabad court allowed Hindus to worship at the disputed site, further escalating tensions between the two communities. The Babri Action Committee was formed to challenge this decision, leading to a prolonged legal battle.
In 1992, a large gathering in Ayodhya demolished the Babri Masjid, resulting in nationwide communal riots and the infamous Mumbai serial bomb blast.
Timeline: 1992-Present
Following the demolition of the mosque, attempts were made to mediate between the parties, but no compromise was reached. The case was transferred to the Allahabad High Court, which ordered an archaeological survey of the site. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) unearthed several significant pieces of evidence supporting the presence of a temple at the disputed site. In 2010, the Allahabad High Court pronounced its verdict, dividing the land into three parts.
Both sides appealed the decision to the Supreme Court, which put the Allahabad High Court’s verdict on hold. After several years, the Supreme Court began hearing the case in 2019. The court employed a unique strategy called the “Moulding Relief Principle” to resolve the case. Over a span of 40 days, the Supreme Court considered 533 pieces of evidence, including archaeological findings and literary sources, before delivering its landmark judgment.
Evidences Presented in Court
The Supreme Court considered several archaeological evidences that were unearthed during excavation at the disputed site. Notable among these were the Vishnu Hari Inscription Stone, the presence of a Hindu bell in the mosque, pillars with Kalash sculptures, a lotus on the mosque dome, and the mention of Ram Janma Bhoomi on the mosque’s main gate.
The literary sources cited in court included Guru Nanak Ji’s biography, Tulsi Das Ji’s book, foreign travelogues, and British government official documents. These sources provided further confirmation of the existence of a Ram temple at the disputed site.
Funding of the Ram Mandir
Contrary to popular belief, the government did not spend any money on the construction of the Ram Mandir. The Shriram Janmabhoomi Trust used a smart strategy to fund the temple. Through donations, the trust collected over 3600 crores INR, which was invested in three banks. The interest earned from these investments was used to build the temple. This approach ensured that neither government funds nor donation money directly financed the construction.
Impact of the Ram Mandir
The construction of the Ram Mandir is expected to have a significant positive impact on the economy of Ayodhya. The Confederation of All Indian Traders estimates that the temple will generate business worth 1 lakh crores INR in Ayodhya. The hospitality industry has already seen a boost, with the opening of 5-star hotels and the creation of job opportunities. The overall development of the region, including infrastructure projects, will contribute to the growth of Ayodhya as a tourist destination.
Conclusion
The resolution of the Ram Mandir case after a 500-year legal battle marks a significant milestone in Indian history. The Supreme Court’s decision was based on strong evidence presented in court, including archaeological findings and literary sources. The funding of the temple was entirely through donations, and the construction is expected to have a positive impact on the economy of Ayodhya. The completion of the Ram Mandir is not just a religious landmark, but also a symbol of India’s cultural heritage and unity.
