In recent developments, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has undertaken a significant task of delisting certain monuments across India. This move aims to reevaluate the national importance of these structures due to various reasons such as urbanization and natural submergence.
Identification of “Untraceable” Monuments
- Barakhamba Cemetery: Originally located in Delhi, now overlaid by Ghalib Park.
- Copper Temple: Situated in Arunachal Pradesh.
- Kos Minar: Found in Haryana.
- Inchla Wali Gumti: Another monument from Delhi.
Geographic Distribution
- Uttar Pradesh: Hosts the majority of the “lost” monuments, including various cemeteries, tombs, and ruins.
- Rajasthan: Features a 12th-century temple in Baran and an inscription in Jaipur’s fort.
- Madhya Pradesh: Houses an inscription in the fort of Bachhaun.
- Uttarakhand: Includes Kutumbari area 13/16 nalis.
Legislative Framework
Under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, the ASI has the authority to safeguard monuments of cultural and historical significance. Delisting of monuments is permissible under Section 35 of this Act.
Challenges and Justifications
- Urbanization: Rapid urbanization has led to the disappearance of several monuments.
- Manpower Shortage: Insufficient personnel hinder proper monitoring and protection of monuments.
- Ambiguity in Definitions: Lack of clear definitions for terms like “missing” or “untraceable” poses challenges in identifying such monuments.
Public Participation
The government has invited objections or suggestions from the public regarding the delisting of these monuments, demonstrating transparency in the decision-making process.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Which organization is responsible for protecting and maintaining nationally significant monuments in India?
- A) Ministry of Culture
- B) Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
- C) Economic Advisory Council (EAC)
- D) Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)
- Answer: B) Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
- What legislative act empowers the ASI to preserve monuments of cultural and historical importance?
- A) Archaeological Sites Preservation Act, 1960
- B) Historical Monuments Protection Act, 1975
- C) Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958
- D) Cultural Heritage Preservation Act, 1982
- Answer: C) Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958
- Which state has the highest number of “lost” monuments among the ones mentioned in the text?
- A) Rajasthan
- B) Uttar Pradesh
- C) Madhya Pradesh
- D) Haryana
- Answer: B) Uttar Pradesh
- What is the primary reason cited by the ASI for the disappearance of monuments?
- A) Theft and vandalism
- B) Natural disasters
- C) Rapid urbanization
- D) Negligence in maintenance
- Answer: C) Rapid urbanization