Ayodhya verdict: Mumbai cops gear up to maintain peace

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With the Supreme Court scheduled to give its verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case by November 17, when Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi would retire, the Mumbai police have started preparing to maintain law and order in the city. Police stations across the city have been asked to conduct meetings of mohalla committees and sensitise them about the matter. The cops are also keeping an eye on social media to avoid any untoward incident or controversy. Instead of their regular 8-hour duty, they would now have to work for 12 hours daily till further notice.

A police source said, "Leaves of senior officers have been cancelled to ensure we have maximum force on ground. Also, additional force might be deployed at sensitive locations. But, at the same time, we are emphasising on preventive policing."

As per the orders of the Police Commissionerate, meetings of mohalla committees are being held from November 3.

"Senior inspectors and assistant commissioners of police have been instructed to conduct the meetings and counsel people about the possible outcome of the verdict. We are focusing on maintaining communal harmony across the society," said another officer. "Cops have been asked to keep a watch on anti-social elements and stay in touch with informers as well," he added.

Cops are also keeping an eye on social media to check the messages that are being posted. "Constant surveillance is on to ensure controversial or communal messages don't get posted on social media. If any one posts messages inciting violence or communal tension, action will be taken," said a senior officer.

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