Explaining the government's perception of terrorism, he made it clear that communalism of the Hindutva brand would be opposed as intensely as the threat from jihadi terrorists. "The demolition of Babri Masjid was a manifestation of religious fanaticism and an act of extreme prejudice," he said.
Striking a balancing note, Chidambaram talked of a `golden rule' of majority Hindus protecting the Muslim minority elsewhere in the country, and the Muslim majority in Jammu and Kashmir defending the other communities in that state.
Taking note of the situation, he said, "Alas, some think that the golden rule is dispensable or that it can be applied selectively."
