Security tightened in Ayodhya as pro-Khalistan leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatens violence at Ram Mandir

After pro-Khalistan leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun allegedly threatened to harm the Ram Mandir in a video message, security was heightened around the temple in Ayodhya on Nov 12.

The founder of the banned group "Sikhs for Justice" reportedly threatened violence at the Ram Temple on Nov 16–17.

Ayodhya is preparing to celebrate "Ram Vivah" on Nov 18, which will be attended by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

With tight security surrounding the Ram Janmabhoomi compound, Ayodhya has essentially become a fortress following the alleged threat, according to authorities.

Officials said that the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has deployed armed personnel to key locations in the temple town, while surveillance has been increased using drones and closed-circuit television (CCTV).

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Uttar Pradesh Police, and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) have been heavily deployed throughout Ayodhya, and intelligence agencies, anti-terrorist squads, and bomb disposal teams are on high alert.

"We have tightened security measures after receiving information about the threat from media reports," said Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) RK Nayyar.

However, Ayodhya Mayor Girish Pati Tripathi downplayed the threat, stating, "No one can dare to launch an attack in Ayodhya, which is protected by Lord Hanuman. The city is already a high-security zone, with trained personnel ready to counter any terrorist threat."

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Nov 12 strongly condemned Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun for allegedly threatening to attack the Ram temple in Ayodhya, asserting that no one can harm the sacred site.

VHP international president Alok Kumar emphasized that India is "mighty and strong" enough to confront any such threat decisively and urged the public to remain calm in response to the threat issued by the designated Khalistani terrorist.

“We have seen the notorious terrorist issuing threats on social media that he will cause harm to Ram temple. He has also threatened to take violent action if anyone waves tiranga (Indian flag) in Canada,” Kumar said in a statement.

“A true disciple of waheguru ji would not even think of saying so and doing so,” he said.

Given the kind of cordial relationship that Hindu and Sikh community members have, only a “mentally deranged” person or a “hired agent of some foreign power” can think of indulging in such acts, the VHP leader said.

“We condemn the issuing of such threats. I also want to say that we do not care. India is mighty and strong. One should come prepared to face death under the provisions of Indian law if coming to cause harm to the Ram temple,” he said.

“Nobody can harm Ram temple... All efforts to create a rift between Hindu and Sikh communities by such statements will fail,” he added.