Supreme Court Confrontation: Preservation of Ram Setu versus Aurangzeb's Mausoleum - A National Patrimony Dispute Elevated to the Highest Court
RAM SETU VS. AURANGRZEB'S TOMB: NATIONAL MONUMENT STATUS AND POLITICAL CONTROVERSY
In the heart of a national debate, the recognition of ancient historical sites has been reignited, ultimately leading to a critical question before the Supreme Court: Why is Aurangzeb's tomb a protected national monument, while Ram Setu, a symbol of Hindu faith and heritage, does not hold the same status?
Located between India and Sri Lanka, the Ram Setu holds profound religious significance in Hindu mythology. Referencing the Ramcharitmanas, it is believed this bridge was constructed by Lord Rama's army to reach Lanka and save Sita. Numerous historical references, including ancient Persian and Arab texts, acknowledge the existence of a bridge-like structure in the region.
However, Ram Setu has not been classified as a national monument under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. The Act stipulates that any site over a century old with historical, cultural, or architectural significance can be declared a national monument.
Former Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Subramanian Swamy has filed a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking that Ram Setu be officially declared a national monument. This legal challenge raises the question of why a site with deep cultural roots remains unprotected, while Aurangzeb's tomb in Maharashtra, a Mughal ruler's resting place, has been protected since 1951 under the same act.
The controversy deepens when examining the historical timeline. In 2007, the government argued under the UPA regime that Ram Setu lacked evidence supporting it as a man-made structure. However, in 2021, the Central Government commissioned the Archaeological Survey of India to determine whether Ram Setu is natural or human-made, though the report remains unpublished.
Although conclusive proof is still elusive, Union Minister Jitendra Singh acknowledged in 2022 that there is historical and mythological evidence confirming the existence of Ram Setu. The issue reflects a deep cultural identity debate within India, as supporters argue that Ram Setu deserves protection as a testament to India's ancient heritage, and critics question the state's policy for neglecting a structure linked to construction and faith while granting protection to a monument associated with destruction.
As the Supreme Court hears the PIL, the nation waits to learn whether a sacred bridge of faith and legend, steeped in historical importance, will receive long-overdue protection. The decision promises to serve as a litmus test of how India balances its historical truths with modern secular governance.
- The debate surrounding Ram Setu's national monument status has interwoven with conversations about cultural travel, as it represents an essential aspect of India's religious and mythological history.
- The political controversy over Ram Setu and Aurangzeb's tomb has expanded the discussion to policy-and-legislation, as the classifications of national monuments are under scrutiny, with questions centered on why certain structures that carry significant cultural value are not protected equally.
- The stalemate over Ram Setu's national monument status has generated broader news coverage, with general news outlets offering insights into the intersection of politics, cultural travel, and historical preservation in the country.
