In a major counter-terrorism success, Indian security agencies have reportedly thwarted an attack on the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, allegedly planned by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Abdul Rehman, a 19-year-old suspect, was arrested in Faridabad, Haryana, with two grenades in his possession. The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), along with the Haryana Special Task Force (STF) and central intelligence agencies, is leading the investigation.
Arrest and Investigation Details
Security forces apprehended Abdul Rehman following intelligence inputs suggesting a planned terror strike. Reports indicate that:
- He had received training from the ISI and was in direct contact with handlers in Pakistan.
- He was allegedly conducting reconnaissance (recce) of the Ram Mandir site in Ayodhya.
- Logistics, including weapons and explosives, were being arranged for him.
Currently, Abdul Rehman is undergoing rigorous interrogation, and security agencies are investigating his possible connections to sleeper cells operating within India.
Ram Mandir: A Repeated Target of Terrorist Attacks
This is not the first time the Ram Janmabhoomi site has been targeted by terrorists. The temple, which holds deep religious significance for Hindus, has witnessed multiple violent incidents over the years.
2005 Ram Janmabhoomi Terrorist Attack
- On July 5, 2005, five armed terrorists attacked the makeshift Ram Mandir at the disputed site in Ayodhya.
- They launched a suicide attack using a car laden with explosives to breach the high-security cordon.
- The terrorists opened fire and hurled grenades, killing a civilian and injuring several security personnel.
- The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) neutralized all five terrorists after an intense gunfight.
This attack was linked to Pakistan-based terrorist organizations, further highlighting the persistent threats emanating from across the border.
ISI’s Role in Anti-India Operations
Pakistan’s intelligence agency, ISI, has long been accused of orchestrating attacks in India through terrorist organizations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen. These groups have been responsible for:
- The 2001 Indian Parliament attack
- The 2008 Mumbai attacks (26/11)
- The 2016 Pathankot and Uri attacks
- The 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing
The latest foiled attempt at the Ram Mandir aligns with ISI’s broader strategy to destabilize India by targeting religious and symbolic sites.
Security Implications and Countermeasures
The arrest of Abdul Rehman highlights the continued threat to India’s religious and cultural landmarks. In response:
- Surveillance and intelligence gathering around Ayodhya have been intensified.
- Advanced security measures including drones, CCTV monitoring, and rapid response teams have been deployed.
- Collaboration between central and state agencies is being strengthened to preempt future threats.
While security agencies remain vigilant, the need for strong counter-terrorism strategies and international pressure on Pakistan to dismantle terror networks remains imperative in safeguarding India’s sovereignty and cultural heritage.