MP Hanuman Beniwal seeks national monument status for Rajasthan's Mangarh Dham
Jaipur, Aug 3
Rashtriya Loktantrik Party chief and Nagaur MP Hanuman Beniwal on Monday raised the demand in the Lok Sabha to declare Rajasthan's Mangarh Dham a National Monument, arguing that the historic site represents the sacrifice and contribution of tribal communities to India's freedom struggle.
Seeking the Centre's response, Beniwal asked whether the government was considering granting national monument status to Mangarh Dham in recognition of its role in the tribal freedom movement.
He said Mangarh Dham is a symbol of the identity, sacrifice and resistance of tribal communities not only in Rajasthan but also in neighbouring Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Referring to the historic Mangarh massacre, Beniwal said thousands of Bhil tribals were killed when British forces opened fire on freedom fighters gathered on the Mangarh Hills.
Responding in the House, Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said Mangarh Dham does not qualify to be declared a Monument of National Importance under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, and that no proposal to accord it such status is currently under consideration.
Expressing disappointment over the government's stand, Beniwal said it was unfortunate that a site associated with one of the country's most significant tribal sacrifices had not received national recognition. "History is not shaped only by buildings and archaeological structures but also by the sacrifices that shaped the nation's freedom and social consciousness," he said.
The Nagaur MP urged the Centre not to evaluate Mangarh Dham solely on archaeological criteria, arguing that it is a living symbol of the tribal freedom movement, social awakening and resistance against colonial rule.
He demanded that the Union government formulate a special scheme to preserve and develop Mangarh Dham as a national memorial and a symbol of tribal pride, while taking steps to ensure future generations remain connected with its historical significance.
Beniwal also reiterated his demand that Mangarh Dham be declared a National Monument, asserting that honouring the martyrs of Mangarh is a responsibility of the entire nation, not just the tribal community.
The MP said he would continue to pursue the issue both inside Parliament and outside until Mangarh Dham receives what he described as its rightful national recognition.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I understand the sentiment here. Historical recognition goes beyond just architecture and ancient structures. The tribal communities' contribution to India's freedom struggle is often overlooked. Hopefully the government reconsiders its stance and gives due recognition to Mangarh Dham.
It's genuinely heartbreaking that a place where thousands of tribal people were martyred isn't given national importance. We celebrate Jallianwala Bagh but forget Mangarh. Both are equally significant in our freedom struggle. The government must look at this with a fresh perspective.
Historically speaking, it's important to note that the Ancient Monuments Act of 1958 has specific criteria. While the emotional and historical value of Mangarh Dham is undeniable, there might be legal hurdles. However, the government could create special provisions for such sites of tribal significance.
Actually, I think there's a valid point here. The rules shouldn't be so rigid that they exclude places with tremendous historical value. Our tribal communities have been ignored for too long. This is about justice and respect for their sacrifices. Desh ko unki yaadon ka maan dena chahiye. 🇮🇳
This is a genuinely significant demand. The Bhil tribals have been our country's unsung heroes. If we can give national monument status to places like Sabarmati Ashram and Raj Ghat, why not Mangarh? Hope Mr. Shekhawat ji takes this seriously and comes up with a special scheme.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.