AYODHYA: Security has been significantly strengthened in Ayodhya after Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the pro-Khalistan terrorist and chief of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), threatened to attack the Ram Temple and other Hindu temples on November 16 and 17.

Pannun, who has long advocated for Punjab’s secession from India, issued a statement in which he vowed, “We will shake the foundations of Ayodhya, birthplace of the violent Hindutva ideology.” The SFJ also outlined plans to disrupt events organized by Indian diplomats in Canada, specifically targeting Kalibari Mandir in Mississauga on November 16 and Triveni Mandir in Brampton on November 17.

Ayodhya’s police and paramilitary forces, already on high alert, have stepped up measures in response to the threat. Authorities are currently investigating the authenticity of the threat, which went viral on social media.

In response to the warning, the city has been turned into a virtual fortress, with heightened security around the Ram Janmabhoomi complex. Increased surveillance, including the use of CCTV and drone cameras, is closely monitoring key areas.

Officials confirmed that personnel from the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Uttar Pradesh Special Security Force (UPSSF) have been deployed to secure sensitive locations. Ayodhya Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) RK Nayyar told TOI, “We have intensified security arrangements following this threat. Strict measures have been implemented after receiving this information through the media.”

Ayodhya Mayor Girish Pati Tripathi reassured the public, stating, “Ayodhya is protected by Lord Hanuman, and no one will dare to attack here. The city already has a high-security setup, with personnel specifically trained to handle terrorist threats. In light of Pannun’s statement, we have conducted a thorough review of all security protocols.”