Deekshabhoomi Renovation Controversy: Rs 214 Crore Project Halted
Nagpur, India- Beautification and renovation work at Deekshabhoomi, costing Rs 214 crore, has caused controversy. The first phase, which involved underground parking, faced opposition because people worried it might damage the Deekshabhoomi stupa and Bodhi tree. For the past 15 days, various groups have expressed their displeasure, leading to widespread public anger on Monday. Thousands of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar’s followers gathered at Deekshabhoomi, chanting slogans and damaging the construction work.
City Police officials intervened but faced strong protests. Workers started a sit-in protest, demanding the parking project be stopped until their concerns were addressed. Responding to public sentiment, the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Deekshabhoomi Memorial Committee decided to stop all construction activities and issued a formal letter to this effect. Congress MLA and ex-Minister Dr Nitin Raut raised the issue in the Legislative Assembly. As a result, Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister of Nagpur Devendra Fadnavis announced an immediate suspension of the construction work.
A meeting with the Committee is planned to find a way forward. Despite the government’s announcement, Ambedkarite followers stayed at the site until late evening. The State Government had allocated Rs 214 crore for Deekshabhoomi’s beautification and renovation, with construction starting six months ago. The project, planned in two phases, began with underground parking, which raised concerns about possible damage to the stupa and Bodhi tree.
There were also worries about water accumulation endangering the structure’s integrity and other future problems. The controversy intensified 15 days ago, leading officials from multiple organizations to protest at Deekshabhoomi. Despite efforts by the Committee to ease fears through meetings and safety assurances with NMRDA and government officials, discontent continued, leading to the protest.
The ‘Deekshabhoomi Bachao Andolan’ began, gaining support from various groups, including the Bharatiya Buddhist Mahasabha and Samata Sainik Dal. Social media mobilization led to a large gathering on July 1 at Deekshabhoomi, where protesters increased their demands, resulting in acts of vandalism and arson at the construction site. Police Commissioner Dr. Ravinder Singal arrived at the scene, but it was difficult to control the crowd. Meanwhile, the Committee issued a letter, deciding to halt the construction work immediately due to public sentiment. The letter, signed by all committee members, was shown to the protesters.
Wadettiwar Joins Protest
Opposition Leader in the Legislative Assembly Vijay Wadettiwar arrived at Deekshabhoomi, urging the project to be stopped immediately. Criticizing the government’s handling of public sentiment, he stressed the need for respect and dialogue to resolve the issue.
