E/CN.4/1995/91 page 45 been living in harmony in keeping with the tradition of Indian society. The Government of India is determined to remain faithful to its secular commitment. Babri Masjid 6. In our letter No. GEN/PMI/352/26/93 dated 17 December 1993 we provided detailed background on the developments that led to the unfortunate demolition of Babri Mosque. As stated therein, the incident was immediately condemned in the strongest possible terms by the highest authorities in the land and comprehensive remedial measures were promptly instituted. 7. Since our earlier communication to you on this subject, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which is an apex body for investigation, was asked by the Government of India to carry out a detailed investigation. Notwithstanding the fact that the mosque was pulled down by a riotous mob of several thousand persons, making investigations exceedingly difficult, charges were initiated before a special court against 40 persons. The court has begun the process of trial. Regarding the rebuilding of the mosque and a temple, the Government of India had sought an advisory opinion from the Supreme Court of India and would abide by the opinion of this apex judicial body in India. The Supreme Court in its verdict of 24 October 1994 has revived title suits regarding the structure under dispute, permitted the settlement of the dispute through negotiations, upheld acquisition of land by the Government except the disputed area - ordered compensation to be paid to owners for land acquisition and, more significantly, convicted the former Chief Minister of the State of Uttar Pradesh, Mr. Kalyan Singh, for contempt of court for violating its orders prohibiting the erection of a permanent structure in the disputed area in Ayodhya in July 1992. 8. The rioting in some parts of India following the unfortunate destruction of the Babri Jasjid mentioned in the annexure is the exception rather than the norm. It was the product of communal tension, exacerbated by inflammatory rhetoric and action from across national frontiers, which were used by anti-social elements for their own interest. However, to argue that any single community was victimized is grossly incorrect. All Indians, irrespective of their religion, suffered. Not only have comprehensive judicial inquiries been instituted but prompt relief and rehabilitation measures have also been taken which have entailed disbursement of 10 million rupees. These steps are in the best traditions of India’s secular polity and in keeping with its long history of respect and tolerance for all religions, beliefs and practices. Disturbances in Bombay 9. As regards the disturbances in Bombay following the 6 December 1992 incident, these were brought under control speedily by the State administration. There was recurrence of communal riots in Maharashtra in the first week of January 1993. To help the local police to control the situation, substantial paramilitary forces, including the newly created