Update : Ayodhya Mediation Panel

A Chief Justice of India led bench of the Supreme Court has allowed the Ayodhya Panel, which appointed to mediate in the Ayodhya issue to continue mediation till July end and turn in its report by August 1.

Who makes up the panel?

The Ayodhya mediation panel is headed by retired Justice FM Khalifullah. He is being assisted in the panel by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Sriram Panchu. While Sri Sr is the founder and head of Art of Living, an international social organization, Sriram Panchu is a trained mediator and a senior advocate.

What had happened?

• In March, the Supreme Court had ordered for the mediation panel to be set up in the Ayodhya case.
• The Panel was to seek an amicable resolution of the politically and religiously sensitive Ayodhya land dispute case.
• Both sides – comprising the Hindu and Muslim organizations- had to maintain confidentiality during the process.
• The entire discussions were to be held in-camera.

Why is this happening?

In order dated September 30, 2010, the Allahabad high court had given a verdict which ordered the 2.77-acre disputed land in Ayodhya which was to be divided equally among the three parties the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and an organization that represents the infant deity Ram Lalla. An appeal filed against the verdict is being heard by the Supreme Court.

What happens if the mediation succeeds?

If the mediation is successful, the Supreme Court will be able to resolve the Ayodhya Land dispute in the most amicable manner possible. This will reduce instances of rioting and any associated challenges for the law enforcement officials.