ASI Takes Firm Action Against Encroachers at Protected Buddhist Site in Odisha
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has launched a decisive crackdown on illegal construction activities encroaching upon the protected perimeter of the ancient Udayagiri Buddhist site in Jajpur district, Odisha. In a significant move to safeguard national heritage, the ASI has issued formal notices to the encroachers, demanding an immediate cessation of all unauthorized building work near the ASI-protected monument.
Official Notices and Police Complaints Filed
Dr. Dibishada Brajasundar Garnayak, the Superintending Archaeologist of the ASI's Puri circle, confirmed that notices were officially issued on April 2 under Section 20A of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. "We have also lodged a complaint with the police to take appropriate action against the encroachers," Dr. Garnayak stated emphatically. Despite these legal measures, reports indicate that the encroachers have defiantly continued their illegal construction activities, blatantly disregarding the ASI's directives.
Local Concerns and Historical Context
The issue was initially brought to light on March 15 when Godabari Santi, the Sarpanch of Gopalpur panchayat, along with other concerned citizens, raised alarms about illegal constructions occurring within the prohibited 200-meter area at the foot of the Buddhist site. "ASI is treating this issue with utmost priority. In the recent past, ASI officials had urged the district administration several times to evict encroachers from the Buddhist sites, but nothing has happened yet," Dr. Garnayak added, highlighting persistent challenges in enforcement.
Administrative Response and Conservation Imperative
When contacted, Jajpur Collector Ambar Kumar Kar assured that the district administration would take proper steps against the illegal construction work. "We will soon take proper steps against the illegal construction work by the encroachers after examining land records and other documents," Collector Kar affirmed. This response comes at a critical time, as the Buddhist sites of Lalitgiri, Udayagiri, and Ratnagiri—collectively known as the "Diamond Triangle"—were added to UNESCO's Tentative List of World Heritage Sites in January this year, positioning them for potential future UNESCO nomination.
Dr. Garnayak emphasized the urgent need for conservation, stating, "We should conserve the monuments and not allow any illegal construction work around the sites." The ASI's actions underscore a broader commitment to protecting India's archaeological treasures from unauthorized encroachments, ensuring that these historical landmarks are preserved for future generations amidst growing developmental pressures.
