Following is the text of the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh's statement, here today:

"The entire country was shocked by the dastardly terrorist attack in Ayodhya. This attack at a place of religious significance is aimed at destabilizing our society and polity. I and our Government condemn this attack. The Government is determined to deal firmly with all such acts of terrorism that are a threat to our security and polity. We will never compromise with the terrorists. There should be no doubt whatsoever in anybody's mind on this point.

I compliment the para-military forces for foiling the nefarious designs of terrorists. The Government views the incident as a serious one. All State have been alerted to take adequate precaution for protecting monuments, security installations and religious places.

I appeal to all citizens to be calm and request all political leaders to help in maintaining public peace and communal harmony."