SP lawmaker denies claims he ordered firing on Ayodhya protesters

Sanatan Pandey, a Samajwadi Party Member of Parliament, has distanced himself from accusations that he ordered the firing on kar sevaks (Hindu activists) during the Ayodhya dispute, stating categorically that he never made such claims.

The SP lawmaker's clarification comes amid revisited discussions over the controversial 1992 incident when security forces opened fire on protesters at the disputed Ram Janmabhoomi site in Uttar Pradesh. The firing resulted in multiple deaths and remains a contentious chapter in the state's political history.

In his statement, Pandey emphasised that he had not confessed to directing the shooting and sought to clarify the record. He also expressed support for Mulayam Singh Yadav's constitutional position as Chief Minister at the time, suggesting the then-CM acted within his official capacity and authority.

The remarks reflect continued political sensitivities around the Ayodhya incident, which has remained a flashpoint in discussions about communal tensions and law enforcement's role during the period preceding the consecration of the Ram Mandir.