No Threat to Konark Temple: Dr. Mahesh Sharma

ONI Bureau: Union Culture Minister Dr. Mahesh Sharma has allayed all fears and concerns surrounding Konark Temple and confirmed that the historical monument is safe and is being preserved and protected under the international standards. “Preservation of Konark Temple remains top priority of Modi Government”, he said.

The meeting held under the leadership of Dr. Sharma in New Delhi today, was attended by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Odisha Tourism & Culture Minister Ashok Chandra Panda, Lok Sabha MP Prasanna Patsani and Nimapara MLA Samir Ranjan Dash. Union Culture Secretary, Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and several other officials were also present.

While Dharmendra Pradhan said that no stones will be left unturned to protect and preserve Konark, which is a symbol of pride for the entire country, Dr. Mahesh Sharma confirmed that Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik has been briefed on this.

Following a report in Odisha media that triggered an outrage and forced CM Naveen Patnaik write a letter to Union Culture Minister Dr. Mahesha Sharma, the Archaeological Survey Of India (ASI) had already clarified that not a single stone carving has been replaced at the Sun Temple in Konark as alleged.

The ASI had further added that advanced techniques of scientific preservation has been successfully implemented to control the rate of erosion of surface stones of Konark Temple.

Dr. Mahesh Sharma has also proposed a meeting between the officers of Odisha Government and ASI officials at the State Secretariat to discuss future plans for Konark Temple. Dr. Sharma and Pradhan also raised the issue of delay in providing land for the proposed ‘Paika Rebellion Memorial’ in Khordha and requested the State Govt to take quick action on this matter.

Also Read: ASI clarifies; says No Stones replaced at Konark Sun Temple