Recent viral videos circulating on social media have raised serious concerns about tourist experiences and staff conduct at the renowned Ajanta and Ellora caves near Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Heritage experts and tourism stakeholders are now urgently calling for enhanced monitoring and swift official action to protect the reputation of this iconic destination.
Viral Videos Highlight Alleged Misconduct
The controversy stems from two separate video clips that gained widespread attention online. Both incidents are reported to have occurred at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is situated approximately 100 kilometers from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
In the first video, a female tourist accused an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) attendant of making objectionable gestures towards her while she was being shown around the caves. The tourist further claimed in her narration that the ASI staff member had agreed to act as an unofficial guide for a fee lower than the standard rate.
The second video featured a male tourist confronting an authorised tour guide over allegations that the guide was providing incorrect and objectionable information to visitors. The tourist is seen rigorously questioning the guide about the accuracy of the historical facts being presented.
Experts and Stakeholders Demand Swift Probe
Reacting strongly to the videos, history expert Sanjay Paikrao emphasized that the incidents require immediate official attention. He stated that the allegations must not be ignored and authorities must act quickly to investigate the matters. "It is our collective responsibility to protect the image of our tourism sector," Paikrao asserted, highlighting the potential damage to India's cultural tourism reputation.
The local tourism body has already escalated the issue to higher authorities. Jaswant Singh, president of the Aurangabad Tourism Development Foundation, confirmed that the Ministry of Tourism has been informed about the incidents. A formal request has been made for an increase in the number of trained guides at both the Ellora and Ajanta cave complexes.
Calls for Systemic Improvements
Singh pointed out a critical need for more professional staff, stating, "There is a need for increasing trained tourist guides at the Ellora as well as Ajanta caves. We have raised the demand with competent authorities." He further stressed that the general movement of both staff and tourists at UNESCO World Heritage Sites needs to be monitored more effectively to prevent such occurrences.
As of Monday night, an email sent to officials regarding these issues had reportedly not been answered. Attempts to reach top officials of the Archaeological Survey of India for their comments on the allegations and the proposed measures were also unsuccessful.
The unfolding situation underscores a pressing need for robust oversight and professional management at one of India's most treasured historical sites to ensure a safe and enriching experience for all visitors.
