Lucknow, Dec 6 : An alert has been sounded in Uttar Pradesh on the 16th anniversary of the demolition of the Babri mosque.

Special security has been provided at all the railway stations, bus stations, markets and other crowded places.

The government has issued instructions to all districts of the State for stepping up their security measures and intensifying police patrolling.

The demolition of the 16th century mosque in Ayodhya on December 6, 1992, had triggered nationwide communal frenzy that took a heavy toll of human lives.

Hindus say the mosque was built by Mughal emperor Babar after destroying a temple at the birthplace of Lord Ram. Muslims dispute this claim and want the Babri mosque rebuilt.

The dispute has dragged on for years in courts, which have banned any construction on the land until the issue is settled. (ANI)