Date:12/08/2003 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2003/08/12/stories/2003081205021100.htm

National

Kanchi Acharya 'taking efforts' to settle Ayodhya dispute

By K. Subramanian

KANCHEEPURAM AUG. 11. "I am taking efforts to find an amicable settlement to the Ayodhya issue," the Kanchi Sankaracharya, Sri Jayendra Saraswati, said here today.

Talking to reporters, he said a number of leaders were meeting him to discuss the issue.

Referring to the decision of the Union Cabinet to bring a bill to ban cow slaughter, he said it should be enacted and implemented by all States.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Chief Minister, Sushil Kumar Shinde, told reporters after a meeting with the Sankaracharya that he had not discussed the Ayodhya issue with him. "It is in the hands of the Centre," he said.

Asked about the nature of his discussions, he said he had requested the Kanchi Acharya to visit the colonies in Maharashtra to help the downtrodden and the minorities.

On the recent Mumbai blast, he said the hand of extremists was evident.

"The investigation is on. The Government is able to investigate and find the sources behind the blast," he added.

Asked about the "bad" fiscal position of Maharashtra, the Chief Minister said: "Every State is facing the same situation. Now it is improving. I am confident of bringing it to the original level."

On Anna Hazare's ongoing fast alleging irregularities, Mr. Shinde said, "I am keenly watching the situation."