Context- Parliamentary panel called for revising rules of construction around protected ASI
monuments.
About (AMASR) Act, 1958
- The AMASR Act was passed by the Parliament in 1958 for the purpose of protection and
preservation of archaeological and historical monuments and sites. - It also provides for the regulation of archaeological excavations and for the protection of
sculptures, carvings and other such objects. - The Archaeological Survey of India functions under the provisions of this Act.
Amendments - The prohibited and restricted area provision was introduced in 2010 through an
amendment to the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR)
Act, 1958. - It prohibits and regulates all activities like mining and construction around 100 metres
and 300 metres. - The AMASR Amendment Bill was introduced in Lok Sabha in 2017
- Amendments in the Bill include allowing the construction of public works in “prohibited
areas”, and the approval and impact assessment of such public works.
What Qualifies as an “Ancient Monument” and “Archaeological Sites and Remains”?
– In the original Act of 1958, “ancient monument” is defined as “any structure, erection,
or monument, or any tumulus or place of interment, or any cave, rock-sculpture,
inscription, or monolith which is of historical, archaeological, or artistic interest and
which has been in existence for not less than 100 years”.
– “Archaeological sites and remains” mean “any area which contains or is reasonably
believed to contain ruins or relics of historical or archaeological importance which have
been in existence for not less than 100 years”.
Concerns - A Parliamentary panel has observed that the provision of 100-metre prohibited and 300-
metre regulated area around all monuments protected by the Archaeological Survey of
India (ASI) has pitted the local community against these heritage structures in many
places as they find it difficult to carry out necessary repair work of their residential
spaces. - Such a situation in many places creates a hostile scenario, pitching the local community
against the monuments.
Recommendations - The Department Related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport Tourism and
Culture has asked the government to revise the rules to make them realistic. - It also recommended that the list of all 3,691 ASI-protected monuments be rationalised
and categorised based on their national significance, unique architectural value, and
specific heritage content.
Government’s Response - The Central government has, however, already said that it was in the process of
amending the Act.