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Don't destroy Sabarmati Ashram's dignity, Congress appeals to PM Modi

Amid staunch opposition from the Congress, the Sabarmati Ashram Preservation and Memorial Trust, which manages the ashram, has already written to the Gujarat government agreeing to the proposed redevelopment plan. 

Congress urges PM Modi, do not destroy Sabarmati Ashram-VPN
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Sabarmati Ashram, First Published Aug 9, 2021, 3:28 PM IST

The Gujarat government's decision to redevelop Mahatma Gandhi's Sabarmati Ashram has met with wide criticism.

On Monday, the Congress once against lashed out at Rs 1200-crore Gandhi Ashram Memorial and Precinct Development Project being executed by the Centre and the Gujarat government.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said that the decision was shocking and uncalled for. 

"People come to Sabarmati Ashram to see how Gandhiji lived a simple life and yet orchestrated an enormous freedom movement by taking every section of the society, particularly at a time when society was extremely divided," Gehlot said.

"Gandhiji spent 13 years of his valuable life in the Ashram, which is also known for its harmony and ideas of fraternity. People from within India and abroad do not wish to see any world-class buildings over here. Visitors admire the simplicity and ideals of the place. That is why it is called an Ashram. It's not a place to be called a museum," he added.

Appealing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and reconsider the decision and protect the historical Ashram, the Rajasthan Chief Minister said, "destroying the sanctity and dignity of the Ashram is a disrespect to the father of the nation."

Claiming that the decision to redevelop the Ashram seems to be driven by political motives to change everything that is related to Mahatma Gandhi, Gehlot warned generations to come would not forgive those who tried to destroy the country's rich heritage, culture and traditions.

According to the plan, the Sabarmati Ashram, which is currently on a five-acre land, will be expanded into 55 acres. The expanded area will be utilised for building a museum. The plan also envisages the closure of the road that divides ashram structures and turn it into a silent zone. Besides, it will also have facilities like a cafeteria, parking lot, parks, among others.

Amid staunch opposition from the Congress, the Sabarmati Ashram Preservation and Memorial Trust, which manages the ashram, has already written to the Gujarat government agreeing to the proposed redevelopment plan.

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