New Delhi, March 16
In an firm expression of the government’s Ayodhya policy, Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee today said the issue should not be allowed to become a "festering sore".

Replying to question during the debate in the Lok Sabha on the motion of thanks on the President’s address to the joint session of Parliament, the Prime Minister said: "The government has followed the rule of law strictly and at the same time, we respected the sentiments of the people. Even the sadhus had a word of praise for the government and gave us their blessings for conducting the entire process in a very smooth way".

Seeking the cooperation of all sections of society in resolving the Ayodhya issue, the Prime Minister said, "The matter has to be heard in the court expeditiously. Outside the court, we should try to solve the issue through mutual discussion. Attempts are still being made to find a way out".

Giving a clarification on the controversial Shila daan, Mr Vajpayee said by receiving the "Ram shila" in Ayodhya, the government not only succeeded in abiding by the constitutional obligations but also respected the sentiments of the people.

The Prime Minister said the government had even stopped the party MPs from going to the site. The receiving of the shila by the Central observer had earned the blessings from Paramhans that the government will rule for many years. "Is it not a matter of satisfaction to all of us?", he asked.

Winding up a two-day discussion, Mr Vajpayee said the attack on Parliament was a challenge to the entire nation. The international community had strongly condemned the strike, he said.

Turning to Gujarat, the Prime Minister said he had asked the state government to form an all-party committee headed by the Governor to monitor relief and rehabilitation measures in the wake of violence which had left thousands homeless.

Appealing to the nation to come forward to help in the endeavour, Mr Vajpayee announced that funds would also be made available from the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.