According to a Reuters report, Shiv Sena is a "chauvinist" Hindu organization based in the state of Maharashtra, in western India, and especially active in Bombay (9 Feb. 1993). Although many members of this organization were arrested during riots that took place in Bombay in February 1993 (ibid.), none of the sources available to the DIRB mention that Shiv Sena members were arrested in December 1992 and January 1993 during the Ayodhya events in the state of Uttar Pradesh. For further information on the Hindu and Muslim confrontations that took place in Ayodhya during this period of time, please consult the attached documents.

This response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the DIRB within time constraints. This response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum.

Reuters. 9 February 1993. "Bombay Moslems Reject Talks with Hindu Militants." (NEXIS)

Far Eastern Economic Review [Hong Kong]. 31 December 1993. "India: Riot and Recrimination."

Jeune Afrique [Paris]. 20 January 1993. Catherine Clément. "Inde: Les démons du fanatisme."

Reuters. 9 February 1993. "Bombay Moslems Reject Talks with Hindu Militants." (NEXIS)

Articles from the Weekly Press Review (India).

Searches in the media databases (On-line)