State PCS - Uttar Pradesh (UP PCS)

• 28 Dec 2024

HC Orders to Protect 17th century Agra Monument

Why in News? 

Recently, the Allahabad High Court provided interim protection to a 17th-century heritage site, the Hammam in Agra, and instructed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and state authorities to prevent any damage to the monument. 

 Key Points 

• Protection of Heritage Site: 
  • A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed seeking protection for the Hammam of Ali Vardi Khan in Agra, citing the imminent threat of demolition by "illegal and unauthorized persons." 
  • The Hammam, located in Chipitola, Agra, was confirmed by an ASI survey in October 2023 to have been built in 1620 AD. 
• Court Directions for Preservation: 
  • The High Court directed the Commissioner of Police, Agra, the ASI, and the Uttar Pradesh State Archaeology Department to ensure the monument is not damaged. 
  • The Commissioner of Police was instructed to deploy sufficient police forces to safeguard the structure. 
• Under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, the ASI and state authorities have a duty to protect the 400-year-old Hammam. 

 Shahi Hammam  

• It is a Mughal-era bathhouse located in Chipitola, Agra, constructed by Alivardi Khan in 1620.  
• Once part of a larger inn complex, the hammam served not only as a bathing facility but also as a cultural and social center.