Historical edifices in Bihar lie in ruins

MOTIHARI/ RAMPURVA - Ashoka Pillars erected at several locations by the Mauryan ruler Ashoka the Great are regarded with historical reverence in India.

However, two such Ashoka Pillars are lying an appalling state in Betia district of Bihar, on account of dereliction of responsibilities by the central or state archaeologists.

One pillar is at Rampurwa and fortunately it is still upright but with no proper maintenance while the other at Motihari has crumbled down and it is in a lying position.onservationists and historians have expressed their worries at this apathy by the authorities.

“No steps are taken to conserve this Ashoka Pillar. Slowly it is getting deteriorated. Also, the inscriptions that were etched in Pali language are getting affected. The trees and shrubs surrounding the Ashoka Pillar are not taken care of. It is an important heritage and government should take care of it. Many tourists visit this place. Even they are not happy to see its present condition,” said Uma Shankar Prasad Gupta, a historian commenting on the pillar at Rampurwa.

This historical edifice has inscriptions in Pali dates back to 3rd century B.C. At Motihari, the locals are unhappy about the state of the monument in their neighbourhood.

“I have been observing this for the past 35 years. Nobody is taking care of it. Though many people have come here but they have done nothing for its restoration,” said Rambacchan Yadav, a resident.

Both these sites have now become a haven for vagabonds, stray animals and frequent encroachers.

Apart from the national emblem and symbol, the Ashoka Pillar also lent the national motto ‘Satyameva Jayate’. (ANI)