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ASI vs MC: Heritage dispute erupts in Amritsar
12 Dec, 2025
Summary
- ASI demands FIR against MC for illegal excavation near Maharaja's palace.
- Construction occurred within protected area, violating heritage laws.
- MC claims jurisdiction over statue upkeep, disputes ASI's authority.
A significant heritage dispute has emerged in Amritsar, with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) requesting the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against the local municipal corporation (MC). The ASI alleges that the MC has conducted unauthorized excavation work within the protected precincts of Maharaja Ranjit Singh's Summer Palace, a site of national importance.
The ASI's objection specifically targets the construction of an RCC retaining wall near the Maharaja's statue, asserting that such activities require prior consent under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958. The construction site was identified as being within the monument's officially notified protected area since October 15, 2004.
Conversely, the MC maintains that the ASI lacks jurisdiction over the statue's maintenance and is proceeding within its rights. This disagreement intensifies an ongoing conflict regarding conservation responsibilities within the historic complex, with the ASI previously raising concerns about being uninformed about the MC's repair work.
