SC extends time till Aug 15 for Ayodhya mediation process

The Supreme Court on Friday (May 10) extended the time for a panel of mediators, heading the politically sensitive Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute at Ayodhya, till August 15.

A five judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said they have received the report from Justice Kalifulla, who is heading the panel, in which they have sought an extension of time till August 15 to complete the mediation proceedings.

“If the mediators are optimistic about the result and are seeking time till August 15, what is the harm in granting time? This issue has been pending for years and years. Why should we not grant time?” asked the bench also comprising Justices S A Bobde, D Y Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer.

The counsel appearing for both the Hindu and Muslim parties expressed confidence over the ongoing mediation proceedings and said they are fully cooperating with the process.

Also read: Ayodhya mediation route could be win-win situation for all