Ayodhya verdict: Business as usual in Patna

PATNA: There were very few vehicles on the city roads till Saturday forenoon and people remained glued to their TV sets at home to know the details of the Supreme Court verdict on Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case.
Government offices were closed and many employees of private firms also opted to stay at home in the wake of the verdict. Amit Kumar, an executive at a private bank, said: “Things in the city happen in the blink of an eye and that’s why I was doubtful about going to office on Saturday.Thus, I decided to remain indoors as I found it a safer option.”
Shilpi Mishra, a student of Magadh Mahila College, said she attended her classes like any usual day. “From autorickshaw drivers to students and teachers, everybody was discussing about the judgement, but it was a healthy discussion. People of all groups welcomed the verdict,” she said.
Business firms and commercial establishments too kept a check on the situation of the city throughout the day. Besides, street shopkeepers, including chaiwalas (tea vendors) held discussions among themselves on the SC’s verdict.
Additional forces were deployed near the Hanuman temple and the mosque at Patna Junction and other religious and sensitive areas, including Ashok Rajpath, Patna City and Phulwarisharif. Police patrolled all the sensitive areas since Friday night.
Patna DM Kumar Ravi said security arrangements have been made in every area of the city till Sunday. “Magistrates have also been deployed in various sensitive localities in order to maintain peace and tranquillity,” he said.
Earlier, residents in several areas, including Alamganj where clashes took place during idol immersion procession earlier this week, stocked up ration for a few days on Friday in apprehension of fresh tension. Many residents were also apprehensive about sending their children to schools and colleges.
Heavy rush was witnessed in many areas around Ashok Rajpath on Friday night and Saturday morning as people thronged the local markets to buy food materials and other essential goods ahead of the judgment.
Bhavna Kumari (33) of Langar Toli said she bought vegetables and other food items like milk and edible products in advance out of fear. “I’m happy that things went off peacefully and people have accepted the judgement. For safe side, I remained at home,” she said.
Nazia Jafri of Loharwa Ghat near Alamganj said she was quiet worried for the last few days after the clashes earlier this week. “The markets here closed early on Friday evening and did not open till Saturday afternoon. The situation, however, is normal now. All the shops have opened,” she said.