New Delhi, In a recent development, a parliamentary panel has urged the Centre to explore the possibility of allowing worship at Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)-protected monuments with religious significance. The recommendation emphasizes ensuring that such activities do not compromise the conservation of these historical sites.
The Department-Related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism, and Culture expressed that numerous historical monuments across the country hold immense religious importance for a large population. The committee suggested that permitting pujas, worship, or certain religious activities at these monuments could fulfill the legitimate aspirations of people.
The report suggested that ASI should assess the feasibility of allowing such religious activities at historically significant centrally protected monuments. However, it stressed that this permission should only be granted if it can be established that these activities would not adversely affect the conservation and preservation of the monuments.
In response, the Ministry of Culture noted the recommendations for further exploration. The ministry, however, highlighted that the policy decision currently restricts the revival of worship where it was not practiced at the time of protection or has been abandoned for an extended period.
According to sources, the ASI follows the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMSAR) Act. The Act stipulates that if a site was not religious or did not have religious activities when taken under ASI custody, then worship or religious activities cannot be allowed. Exceptions are made for sites where such practices were the norm at the time of ASI’s takeover.
The parliamentary committee also expressed disappointment at what it perceived as a lack of seriousness on the part of the Ministry of Culture in responding to critical issues addressed in its recommendations.
This development opens a dialogue on the intersection of heritage preservation and religious practices at historically significant sites across India.
Delhi Allocates Separate Budget for NCRTC’s RRTS Project
New Delhi, In a move to expedite the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) project, the Delhi government has allocated a separate budget head for funds dedicated to the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC). The NCRTC, a joint venture between the Centre and participating states, is responsible for executing the RRTS project.
Following a directive from the top court, the city government released Rs 415 crore to the NCRTC for the RRTS project. The allocated funds are aimed at supporting the timely and efficient implementation of this vital transportation initiative.
The RRTS project, connecting various regions, has seen progress with the completion of tunnelling in Meerut. The recent release of funds underscores the commitment to advancing infrastructure projects that enhance connectivity and transportation efficiency in the National Capital Region.
This move is part of broader efforts to address transportation challenges and improve the overall infrastructure landscape in and around Delhi.
