From preserving heritage to resolving temple-mosque disputes, has ASI lost its way?
Has the body lost its original focus on protecting cultural heritage, and become more aligned with resolving centuries-old temple-mosque clashes? The controversial shift from heritage to religious excavations
In 1861, the British Raj had an epiphany. To better assert their control over the Indian population, they felt they needed to know more about the region’s history and culture. This, combined with the passion of a young army engineer named Alexander Cunningham for mapping and restoring India’s historical remains, led to the establishment of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Cunningham went on to become its first head.
The ASI, which holds guardianship of over 3,600 monuments across the nation today, was initially tasked with preserving historical landmarks as well as studying the history of the Indian subcontinent through archaeological discoveries and excavations. In later years, its role expanded to include boosting India’s image as a prime tourist destination with vast historical assets.
