Supreme Court Slams RWA: The Supreme Court made a strong comment on the occupation of Delhi’s historical Lodi period tomb ‘Gumti-e-Sheikh Ali’ by the Defense Colony Welfare Association (DCWA). The court also took the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to task and questioned its inaction in this matter. The Supreme Court asked the Defense Colony Welfare Association, “How can this happen?”
The Supreme Court has strongly reprimanded the Defense Colony Welfare Association (DCWA), saying that using this historic 15th century tomb as an office is not only wrong but is also harmful to the structure. RWA had justified this step by saying that if this occupation had not taken place, this historical site would have been ruined at the hands of anti-social elements. Rejecting this argument, the court said, “How did you people enter this structure? What kind of arguments are you giving?”
Criticism of institutions subordinate to the Archeology Department
The Supreme Court strongly criticized the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and said that this institution has failed in fulfilling its responsibilities. The court said, “What are you guys doing? You have ignored your responsibilities. We are deeply troubled that due to your inaction this historic structure is in danger.”
The CBI report found that the RWA had made several changes to the tomb, including the construction of a false ceiling. Furthermore, in 2004 the ASI had initiated the process of declaring this tomb as a protected monument, but it was canceled in 2008 due to opposition from RWAs.
Now RWA will have to vacate the tomb.
The Supreme Court has asked the RWA to order the vacation of this historical structure and has fixed the next hearing of the case on January 21, 2025. Keeping in mind the investigation report of CBI in this case, the court said that there could be political aspects to this case, in which the role of a former Union Minister is involved. Taking a tough stand in this matter, the Supreme Court made it clear that preservation of historical heritage is the primary responsibility of the government and related institutions.
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