Tourism Minister Shekhawat seen in a different light in Parliament
The Sunday Mail
New Delhi: Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat was seen in a different light in Parliament on Thursday. Responding to a question from Congress MP Pramod Tiwari in the Rajya Sabha, Shekhawat said, “I come from a family that has continuously made sacrifices for a thousand years to protect the culture and civilization of this country. Speaking of my generations, twenty-two generations of my family have fought to protect this land, its traditions, and its soul.”
In fact, during a discussion on monuments and religious sites, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari, referring to Union Minister Shekhawat, said that perhaps he would not understand the sentiments, and also added that those who did not contribute to the freedom struggle probably do not understand the value of the country’s heritage. To this, Union Minister Shekhawat categorically stated, “I want to make it clear that I myself come from a family that has not only made sacrifices for a thousand years to protect the culture and civilization of this country, but even after independence, in the last seventy years, members of my family have continuously contributed and made sacrifices to protect the country’s borders. Therefore, it is not appropriate to say that I personally cannot understand the country’s heritage or sentiments.”
Regarding the question of increasing fees for the general public at monuments and religious sites, Shekhawat said that as far as entry fees are concerned, I want to assure the House clearly that fixing ticket prices is not within the purview of the government or any private institution. This authority rests entirely with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Whatever fees are collected go directly to the Consolidated Fund of India. It does not go to any private institution, nor is it for the independent use of the ASI or any other department. Therefore, no commercial entity has any role or intervention in this matter.
The Union Minister said that the role of these institutions is extremely limited and is confined only to maintenance, cleanliness, and management. They have no further authority or contribution beyond that. In addition, the government has also prepared certain standard operating procedures under which some selected monuments can be used for cultural activities. A positive list has been created, clearly specifying the types of cultural events that can be held at each monument. These events may include cultural programs, exhibitions, and literary festivals. Any fees or revenue generated from these events will be deposited into a dedicated fund. This fund will be used exclusively for the conservation, maintenance, and management of that particular monument. This money cannot be used for any personal or commercial gain.
Shekhawat said, “I want to assure the House that the country’s cultural and historical heritage will be protected with utmost seriousness, reverence, and responsibility, and there will be no compromise on its sanctity, nor will uncontrolled commercialization be permitted.”
