Day after, many stay away from Ayodhya mela

The Kartik Mela in Ayodhya witnessed a low turnout on Saturday — it was the most important day for the holy dip- after the serial blasts in three cities of the state, including Faizabad. The city of Faizabad too remain closed for the day in response to the BJP’s call for a statewide bandh.

There was hardly any rush at the Ayodhya ghats, which normally see huge crowds on this day. In contrast, the railway station wore a crowded look as many devotees tried to catch the first train home. Mahant Ram Kripal Das of Hanuman Garhi temple pointed out that Ayodhya is usually full to its capactity during this time.

In Faizabad, a group of VHP activists roamed the streets in the morning, forcing shops to down shutters. Those who opposed them faced physical assault and abuses.

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A day after the blasts, many political leaders descended on the city. First there was BJP president Rajnath Singh, who blamed the Centre for the rise in terrorist activities.

Then came Samajwadi Party leader Shivpal Yadav, who demanded that the state government should raise the compensation amount for victims’ families to Rs 10 lakh.

Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee president Rita Bahuguna Joshi also visited the blast site.