Terror attacks reaction to Babri demolition: Mani Aiyer

Lucknow, Nov 9 (IANS) Union Panchayati Raj Minister and senior Congress leader Mani Shanker Aiyer Sunday termed the increasing terror activities in the country as a reaction to the demolition of the centuries-old Babri Masjid in Ayodhya.

Aiyer, who was in Faizabad Sunday to speak at the concluding day's function of a book fair, stated: 'I saw Ram Lalla in Ayodhya but it was a painful experience that the masjid is no more. I cannot imagine Ayodhya without Babri Masjid.'

'The terror activities going on throughout the country are a reaction ignited by the Hindutva forces who demolished the Babri Masjid,' Aiyer asserted.

Aiyer also claimed that the same 'sect' of people also assassinated Mahatma Gandhi. 'And it is due to this (Babri demolition), that we are scared to walk safely in any city of the country.'

During his address, Aiyer supported NCP leader Sharad Pawar's demand to rebuild the Babri Masjid.

'We (Congress) would also like to assure that we will not forgive those who are behind the demolition of the masjid,' he said.