I stand vindicated: LK Advani hails Ayodhya verdict

"I stand vindicated, and feel deeply blessed, that the Supreme Court has given its unanimous verdict paving the way for the construction of a magnificent temple for Lord Ram at Ramjanmabhhomi in Ayodhya," he said in a statement here.

Advani described it as "a moment of fulfilment", and said he now has an opportunity to make his ''own humble contribution to the mass movement".

"I have always stressed that Ram and Ramayana occupy an esteemed place in India’s cultural and civilisational heritage and Ramjanmabhoomi holds a special and sacred place in the hearts of crores of our countrymen in India and abroad. Therefore, it is gratifying that their belief and sentiments have been respected," he said.

The Former Deputy Prime Minister also hailed the apex court’s decision to allot five acres of land at a prominent place for the building of a mosque in Ayodhya.

He said the judgement is the culmination of a long and contentious process that played itself out in various forums – both judicial and non-judicial – over the past many decades.

"Now that the prolonged Mandir-Masjid dispute in Ayodhya has come to an end, the time has come to leave all contention and acrimony behind and embrace communal concord and peace. Towards this end, I appeal to all sections of our diverse society to work together to strengthen India’s national unity and integrity," he said.

He appealed to all sections of country's diverse society to work together to strengthen India’s national unity and integrity.

Advani is one of the troika, including Ramchandra Das and Ashok Singhal, who shaped the Ram Mandir movement.

Earlier in the day, BJP leader Uma Bharti met Mr Advani and hailed his role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. She said, ''Whatever happened today was because of Mr Advani''.