Ayodhya

Temple site was bitterly contested for decades with both Hindus and Muslims laying claim to it

Indian PM offers prayers on the banks of the Sarayu River before heading to the construction site

Nepal has become a victim of cultural encroachment, says Nepali premier

Rising tide of religious bigotry in India is well-documented by international human rights organisations, says FO

Razing of Babri mosque by Hindu zealots almost 30 years ago unleashed country's worst sectarian violence

It will have its own shed for cows, as well as a huge prayer hall

Modi's election promises included construction of temple on ruins of 16th-century mosque razed by Hindus in 1992

The commitment to construct the grand temple in Ayodhya has been part of the BJP’s election manifesto

Hindu groups believe the Ayodhya site to be the birthplace of Lord Ram, one of the religion’s most revered deities

Muslim groups hold small commemorations of those who lost their lives in 1992 anti-Muslim riots

Both Hindu and Muslim groups have petitioned India’s Supreme Court to help resolve the issue

Demolition of the mosque at Ayodhya sparked nationwide riots in which thousands were killed most of them Muslims