Six gunmen killed after storming disputed Indian holy site

0 Comments | AFP, July, 2005

LUCKNOW, India (AFP) — Six gunmen were killed after storming a holy compound claimed by both Hindus and Muslims, prompting India to put security forces on alert nationwide to prevent sectarian violence.

Police and officials said Tuesday the unidentified attackers shot their way into the complex in Ayodyha, site of the Babri mosque that was demolished by Hindu right-wingers in 1992 and triggered deadly riots across the country.

The men holed up inside the 80-acre (26 hectare) compound and were killed in a two-hour gunbattle with security forces at the site, which has long been a flashpoint of strife between India's Hindu and Muslim communities.

India's federal cabinet reviewed the attack in an already scheduled meeting Tuesday and put security forces on alert...