Udupi: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat made it clear yesterday stating that only Ram Mandir would be built at the Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya and that it was “not a populist declaration but a matter of faith”.

He was addressing a gathering after taking part in the inauguration of three-day ‘Dharma Sansad’ organised by Vishwa Hindu Parishat (VHP) at Udupi. Bhagwat said, “We will construct it. It is not a populist declaration but a matter of our faith. It will not change. It will be built using the same stones and under the leadership of people who fought for it for the last 20-25 years.”

He said that after years of efforts and sacrifice, it (building the Ram temple) seemed possible now, while also noting that the matter was in the Court. The RSS Chief also said that public awareness was essential for building the Ram Temple in      Ayodhya.

“We are close to achieving our goal, but at this juncture, we should be extra cautious,” he stated. While delivering his speech, Bhagwat has asked for a complete ban on cow slaughter. “If there is no ban on gau hatya (cow slaughter), we cannot be in peace,” he added.

Speaking on the occasion,  Pejawar Seer Vishwesha Theertha Swamiji said that preparations were underway for the construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya by next year.

Stating that inequality and untouchability were two biggest enemies of Hindus, he called upon the Hindus to find a solution to weed out the social evils from the religion.

Suttur Seer Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji, Dharmastala Dharmadhikari Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, Govind Devagiri Maharaj of Pune, Paramathma Saraswathi Swamiji of Rajkot, VHP Working President (International) Pravin Togadia and religious heads from various parts of the country were present.