Ayodhya: Security agencies detained a man from Jammu and Kashmir after he allegedly attempted to offer namaz inside the heavily guarded Ram Mandir premises, triggering a brief security alert on Saturday evening.
According to police officials, the man entered the Ram Janmabhoomi complex during visiting hours and moved towards a restricted zone, where his actions were flagged by alert security personnel. He was immediately stopped, isolated from the crowd and handed over to local police for questioning.
Authorities said no damage was caused and the situation was brought under control within minutes. Temple operations and darshan continued normally after standard security checks were reinforced.
Mahamandaleshwar Vishnu Das-
“Someone attempted to offer Namaz inside Ram Temple premises.
Such extremist jihadis aim to disturb faith of devotees in Hindu temples.” pic.twitter.com/wn9nhoAe1H
— News Arena India (@NewsArenaIndia) January 10, 2026
Initial questioning revealed that the man is a resident of Jammu and Kashmir. Media reports have carried varying claims about his age and background, but police said these details are still being verified. Officials confirmed that intelligence agencies have been informed and a detailed background check is underway to determine intent and possible security implications.
Family members of the detained individual reportedly told police that he has a history of mental health issues. Officials said medical documents and other records are being examined as part of the probe, and no final conclusion has been drawn so far.
At the Shri Ram Mandir, Ayodhya, an individual identified as Ahmad Sheikh attempted to offer namaz inside the temple.
Sacred places of worship must be respected, but such anti social elements will never understand and keep stirring up such incidents to create issues. pic.twitter.com/El1UKpfc9b
— Dr Vinusha Reddy (@vinushareddyb) January 10, 2026
The Ram Mandir complex remains under multi-layered security, including armed personnel, surveillance systems and strict access controls, given its religious and national significance. Senior officials reiterated that any unauthorised activity inside restricted areas will be dealt with firmly, while urging the public to avoid speculation until the investigation is completed.
Police said further action will depend on the outcome of questioning and verification of facts.
Reacting to the incident, leaders from multiple Hindu groups said the episode underlined the need for stricter access norms at the Ram Janmabhoomi site. “This is the time to impose a clear rule—only Hindus should be allowed inside the Ram Mandir complex to maintain its sanctity,” they said. Drawing a comparison, the leaders argued that “similar restrictions exist in Mecca, where only followers of Islam are permitted entry.”
