Govt shows no concern for protection of temples, shrines in Valley: PNBMT

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 7: Expressing its serious concern over delaying tactics adopted by the Government over constitution of Shrines and Temples Board for protection of Hindu shrines and temples in Kashmir Valley, Pt. Prem Nath Bhat Memorial Trust (PNBMT) today declared that it will intensify its struggle till the goal is achieved.
This was stated by the chairman of the Trust R L Pandita while addressing a meeting at Subash Nagar here. The meeting, while showing its utmost concern over the dilapidated condition of ancient shrines and temples in the Valley which are the cultural monuments as well, said the Government should put a mechanism in place for their security and management so that these shrines and monuments are saved for the posterity.
These shrines and temples are the symbols of ancient religious and cultural heritage of Kashmir dating back to over 5000 years old history and in case the Government continues its dilly dallying tactics towards their preservation these symbols of heritage will turn into ruins.
The speakers showed their dismay over the role of Government which despite repeated requests by the Trust has failed to take the concrete steps in constitution of the Hindu Shrines and Temples Board in Kashmir by bringing an ordinance in this regard. They urged the Government not to do any further delay in this regard and take concrete steps in bringing an ordinance for protection of the shrines and temples in Kashmir.
The meeting also appointed Bansi Lal Zar as incharge chairman in absence of R L Pandita. The proceedings of the meeting were conducted by Shadi Lal and the meeting was among others addressed by M K Jalali, Kashmiri Lal, Hira Lal Bhat, Bushan Lal Bhat, Dr R L Bhat, Manmohan Thaploo, Kuldeep Raina,Virender Raina, Sundri Lal, M K Raina and others.