As Punjab prepares to observe the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh on June 29, several historic monuments linked to the founder of the Sikh Empire remain in a state of disrepair, battling encroachments and official apathy. Despite the Maharaja's significant contributions to the development of Amritsar, many structures tied to his legacy have been neglected, with conservation experts criticizing recent restoration efforts for lacking a proper heritage perspective and altering the original architectural character of historic buildings.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Summer Palace: Restoration Amidst Surrounding Neglect
Among the most prominent sites is Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Summer Palace, built in 1819. The palace served as the Maharaja's residence during the summer months and whenever he visited the Darbar Sahib. After remaining closed for restoration since 2007, the Punjab Heritage Department reopened the palace in 2021 with improved visitor facilities. However, the area surrounding the monument continues to suffer from poor sanitation, heaps of garbage, and inadequate maintenance, reflecting official indifference.
Ram Bagh: A Historic Garden Under Siege
The adjoining historic Ram Bagh, laid out by Maharaja Ranjit Singh himself, has also lost much of its grandeur. Large portions of the garden remain under illegal occupation despite being a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Heritage activists allege that the encroachments include elite clubs, sports associations, influential individuals, political leaders, and even civic authorities. Repeated demands to remove the encroachments have gone unheeded, while garbage dumps and poor upkeep have become a common sight within the historic garden.
Ram Bagh Deorhi: A Gateway to History Deteriorating Again
Another neglected monument is the nearly 200-year-old Ram Bagh Deorhi on the outskirts of the Walled City. Restored by the municipal corporation in 2019 under the National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY), the gateway is believed to be the place where Maharaja Ranjit Singh heard public grievances. The structure stands adjacent to the historic Ram Bagh Gate, which was demolished by the British in 1860. Following its restoration, the government converted the deorhi into a folk museum showcasing traditional crafts, local trade, and cultural artefacts. However, the municipal corporation failed to operationalise the museum, and despite the renovation, the building has once again started showing signs of deterioration.
Heritage Activists Call for Action
Kuljit Singh Malanwali, president of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Virasat Manch, said monuments associated with the legendary Sikh ruler were facing complete neglect due to the indifference of the government, the district administration, and heritage agencies. He urged the authorities concerned to remove all encroachments from Ram Bagh and ensure the scientific conservation and regular maintenance of the city's historic monuments.
