Bihar: ‘Balanced verdict, based on facts and evidences’

PATNA: Retired IPS officer and Mahavir Mandir Trust secretary Acharya Kishore Kunal, an author of two books on Ayodhya, has been closely associated with the Ramjanmabhoomi case in the Supreme Court. He tells Ramashankar that the verdict is balanced and appreciable. Excerpts:
How do you see the verdict?
Justice has prevailed. The verdict is balanced and appreciable. It’s more based on facts and evidences.The judges have taken into account every aspect and done a commendable job. Moreover, if any party has any grievances, there is a scope to go for the revision of the order. I think the best possible has been done by the court on the issue.
How special is the verdict for you?
I have been associated with the Ramjanmabhoomi dispute case for the last two decades. I remained in Delhi throughout the time-bound hearing. In fact, I have done a lot of research on it and collected evidences to substantiate the claim that the land belonged to Ramlala. Altogether 103 evidences were there from our side. It’s more significant for me as the verdict came a day after an idol of ‘Bal Swaroop’ of Shri Ram was installed with ‘Pran Pratishtha’ rituals at Ayodhya. The temple built at an estimated cost of Rs80 lakh is situated just in front of the Ramjanmabhoomi.
Would you like to become a member of the trust to be set up by the central government as per the SC order?
It’s a hypothetical question. But I will certainly accept the offer, if any. Who in the country will not like to become a part of the trust to oversee the construction of a Ram temple? It will be a matter of honour for any citizen to become a member of that trust. I had been the president of the Bihar Religious Trust for 10 years and have been looking after the Mahavir Mandir Trust, Patna, for over 20 years. I am also the member of a trust in Ayodhya.
Any financial contribution from the Mahavir Mandir Trust to the proposed temple at Ayodhya?
I have announced annual Rs2 lakh contribution for five years for the construction of Ram temple at Ayodhya. However, it will be a drop in the ocean as far as the cost of the temple is concerned.
What are your plans now?
I have to complete the construction work of the temple at Ayodhya for which I have been toiling for almost five years. The only wish that I cherish is to take a dip in Saryu river and pray before Shri Ram in His magnificence temple built on his birthplace. Ayodhya has been the ‘krida bhoomi’ of Shri Ram. His presence is felt in every nook and corner of Ayodhya.
Any message to the people after the SC verdict?
I appeal to people of every sect and religion to honour the judgment and don’t get swayed by vested interests. No one should not resort to any violence or other acts which will hurt the sentiments of the other group. It’s time to remain calm and composed.