ASI has become a puppet of Hindutva ideology: Asaduddin Owaisi in Parliament

During the second phase of the Parliament’s budget session, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi targeted the Union government over vacant positions in the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the protection of historical heritage, sparking a heated debate.

He questioned the functioning of the ASI, alleging that it has become a puppet of Hindutva ideology and is failing to fulfill its responsibilities properly.

“ASI is detoxifying because, from the last 15 years, ASI has become a handmaiden of Hindutva ideology.”

He questioned, “whether ASI should work according to our Constitution, which is based on secularism and pluralism?”

“This government has been in power for the past 11 years. There are 6,516 vacancies in the Ministry of Culture… with over 67 vacancies in the conservation branch, a significant shortfall across key divisions of archaeology and epigraphy, how does the ministry ensure how centrally protected monuments are maintained and preserved? What specific measures are we talking to address the impact on research… and management duty in conservation”

He asked, “Why has the government failed to prioritize ASI?”

Expressing concern over the condition of the Taj Mahal, Owaisi said, “Why did the government fail to



prioritize ASI, and does he know that there are water leaks, and cracks on the Taj Mahal?”

“How do you justify your failure to ensure proper upheap even for India’s most iconic monuments? Does he have the manpower in ASI to protect them according to the recommendation of the standing committee to establish a dedicated management cadre within ASI for Delhi, focusing on the administration of centrally protected monuments, including visitor management and executive management?” inquired Owaisi.

“Do you have any plans to bifurcation of ASI into two wings one for exploration, excavation, and conservation and handling of revenue-generating activities?” he added.

However, Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat dismissed the claims, while responding to Owaisi’s allegations, asserting that ASI is diligently carrying out its responsibilities and ensuring the upkeep of historical heritage.

He said there was a staff shortage in ASI but assured that it would be addressed soon, as the 8,750 vacant positions, out of which 3,203 are to be filled under UPSC and SSC.

Shekhawat accepted that there was an incident of motor leakage at the Taj Mahal, but it was immediately repaired. He also emphasized that the government is committed to both the preservation and development of historical heritage.