The response of the people to the verdict of the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court has shown that the people find a settlement of the dispute by the judicial process acceptable. The general reaction of the people has been that the matter should not be once again used in a divisive manner.
The verdict for a three way division of the land is, however, based on "faith and belief". This aspect of the set of judgements is disturbing as it accords primacy to religious belief and faith over and above the facts and the record of evidence. It will set a dangerous precedent for the future. When the matter goes to the Supreme Court on appeal, it is to be hoped that this issue will be addressed.
The demolition of the Babri Masjid in December 1992 was a criminal offence and an assault on the secular principle. It is true that this was not a matter being considered by the Special Bench. However, there are apprehensions that the reasoning set out in the judgements may be taken as a post-facto justification for the demolition. The cases pertaining to the demolition which are being heard by other courts have to be seriously pursued.
In the secular democratic set-up ordained in the Constitution, the way to resolve the matter is through the judicial process and the decision of the Supreme Court would be final. I am confident that all sections of the people will uphold and support this course of action.
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