Srimandir periphery filled with rich heritage, alerted Odisha govt many times: ASI

Making a big revelation on the 'controversial' Srimandir Parikrama Project, Superintendent of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) informed today that he had alerted the Odisha government officials many times that the entire periphery of Srimandir is filled with archaeological remains and ancient artefacts will come up during digging at any place.

In an exclusive conversation with OTV, ASI Superintendent Arun Mallick said, "I have repeatedly told the State officials that Sri Jagannath temple in Puri is a culturally viable place and the area near the Srimandir is highly rich in ancient materials. So, there is high possibility of finding archaeological remains during digging in the area." 

"The Srimandir was built in 12th centry and since then, the area has developed. So, every bit of Puri is part of history. There has been no missing link as there has been a continuous cultural and societal expansion," he said.

Concerns have been expressed over the Srimandir Heritage Corridor project following the recovery of a huge ancient broken stone sculpture resembling a lion during digging and excavation works on the premises of historic Emar Mutt in Puri on May 16.

Today, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra even criticised the State government for allegedly ignoring the advice of ASI. “Why the advice of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) was ignored and ground-penetrating radar survey (GPRS) and impact assessment study were not undertaken at the site before carrying out the digging activities resulting in the damage to the antique sculpture,” asked Patra on Wednesday while addressing a presser.