The Working Committee deems it necessary to explain the rule of Shariat with regard to a mosque that the title (to) and the ownership of a mosque and its site vest in God neither can (a mosque) be changed nor sold nor purchased nor transferred by way of compromise to any individual or group or Government nor acquired by a Government.

The Committee has arrived at the conclusions:

a) that undeniable historical and legal evidence makes it obvious that Babari Masjid is a mosque. The Government of UP has also admitted this fact in its affidavit before the Court. In fact the Babari Masjid was not built on any usurped land or by demolishing any temple. Hence its status in Shariat is that of a mosque. Therefore, the (status of the) mosque should be restored as it was till December 22, 1949.

b) the Shilanyas performed on the graveyard land adjoining the Masjid on November 9, 1989 was illegal and wrongful. Kar Seva or any such programme should not be allowed on this site.

c) It is the responsibility of the Government to comply with the injunction of the Allahabad High Court and to prevent its contravention. The attempt to construct a temple at the site of the mosque or on its land (constitutes) lawbreaking and rebellion against the Constitution. It is the duty of the Government to safeguard the Constitution and to uphold the rule of law.

d) If the Government desires to settle the dispute through negotiations, the Board will welcome any settlement which is not in conflict with Shariat.

e) The Communalists, for last three years, are stoking the communal fire all over the country through speeches, statements, audio and video cassettes. The Government should fulfill its duty by putting a brake on this unfortunate campaign and should realise that this campaign of hatred and aggression is detrimental to the interests of the country, its integrity and solidarity. The Government should also realise that the Muslims, in the common interest of the country have conducted themselves with patience and forbearance and have refrained from adopting extremist reaction.

f) The Government, the political leaders and well-wishers of the country should realise that the future of country and its (democratic/secular) character are also involved in this dispute and they can be saved by upholding (truth), justice and the rule of law.

 PUCL: DEMAND FOR JUDICIAL INQUIRY, 16 NOVEMBER, 1990

It has been widely reported that during the events leading to the 30th October, 1990, to Ayodhya, law enforcement agencies of various State Governments have acted arbitrarily and in complete violation of the rights of the citizens by mass arrests and excessive use of force. The State Governments have of course denied that any excesses have been committed. The gravity and the enormity of the task require that a high level judicial enquiry should be held by the Government of India. We would, therefore, urge government of India to immediately announce the constitution of a high level judicial enquiry and investigation into the various aspects and facets of these events. This alone can give a sense of confidence to various sections of the society.

 IUML: STATEMENT BY G.S.G.M. BANATAWALLA

The reported initiation of efforts by the Prime Minister Shri Chandra Shekhar to bring about a negotiated settlement of the Ram Janambhoomi-Babari Masjid dispute is welcome. The negotiations must be broad-based and include all the parties to the dispute. However, the first step in the direction of an acceptable negotiated settlement is for the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and their allies to come to the negotiating process for a just and fair solution without any pre-conditions.

The Muslim League stresses upon the Central and State Governments that firm and adequate measures to meet the impending kar seva threat to law and communal amity cannot be made to await the outcome of efforts for a negotiated settlement.

The agitation to interfere with the disputed complex, including the Shilanyas site, be banned and the provisions of Indian Penal Code, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and of all other relevant laws be invoked against guilty individuals and organizations. The security of the entire disputed complex be entrusted to the army.

Legislation must be immediately enacted to protect the status of all places of religious significance as on the independence of the country.