Adopt a heritage scheme: A dubious and opaque exercise

The reluctance of the government to take stakeholders into confidence is what stands out. The fact that the Centre did not bother to consult even BJP-ruled states like Goa and Assam before finalising the scheme inspires little confidence in the scheme. Consultations and deliberation should have been the first exercise before embarking into anything new. But the government appears to have been casual and cavalier in its approach. That is a cause for concern.

It is also not clear on what basis the Monument Mitras have been selected. An expression of intent by a company or individual, a report laying down ideas and discussion with a few bureaucrats and politicians seem to have determined who would have the privilege of maintaining, say the Red Fort. One may have nothing against the Dalmia Group but the fact that some of the promoters of the group were enthusiastic supporters of the demolition of an ancient monument and have also been close to a political party are sufficient reasons to cause discomfort. The selection of ‘Monument Mitras’ should have been far more transparent.

Some of the companies identified by the government are bound to raise eyebrows. Companies like ‘Climbing World’, TK International Limited, etc. do not ring a bell. And most of them do not even appear to have a website.

The money that the Dalmia Group is going to pay the government ( ₹25 crore in five years) is also quite opaque. Is it the fees for getting access to the monument? And will the company be investing additional sums to create public infrastructure and convenience? When the annual collection from the Red fort is over ₹22 crore, what is the justification for the government not spending the same amount for the upkeep? Why invite a private company to spend less? Or is it going to invest more, and if so why?

Another question that arises is why the government is not funding the ASI adequately and strengthening it to do its job better? Is there any need for new schemes and new bodies, especially when the National Culture Fund (NCF) has also been there?

It is also not clear why a private company will invest on a sound and light show, souvenir shop, audio guides and infrastructure for five years. What happens if the company loses interest or if the government decides to entrust it to some other company after five years?

Will semi-commercial activities include DJ Nights, birthday or office parties or weddings as well