How private entity given mandate to maintain Red Fort, ask oppn parties

Opposition parties today questioned the government's move to allow a private entity to maintain the iconic Red Fort, days after a corporate house signed an agreement with the tourism ministry under its 'Adopt a Heritage' project.

The Dalmia Bharat Group, under the memorandum of understanding, would maintain the 17th century monument and build basic infrastructure around it and has committed a sum of Rs 25 crore for the purpose over a period spanning five years.

The decision opposed by the Congress, the CPI(M) and the Trinamool Congress, which slammed the government for virtually handing over the symbol of India's Independence to a corporate.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi is preparing to mortgage India's symbol of Independence, the Red Fort to corporates. Does Modiji or BJP even understand the importance of Lal Quila?" Congress' chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said.

He said, "Is it not true that the private company will now issue tickets to see the Red Fort? Is it not true that if anyone wants to do any commercial activity there, or any fucntion, the private party has to be paid...

"Can you barter out the symbol of freedom movement like the Red Fort to his corporate friends for maintenance," Surjewala said.

Under the agreement, the Dalmia Bharat group has agreed to make available certain basic amenities at the monument within six months. These include providing drinking water kiosks, street furniture-like benches and signages to guide the visitors, according to the ministry.

Trinamool Congress chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee tweeted, "Why can't the Government even take care of our historic Lal Qila ? Red Fort is a symbol of our nation. It is where India's flag is hoisted on Independence Day. Why should it be leased out ? Sad and dark day in our history."
Earlier, criticising the government, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera asked, "What is your commitment to the idea of India, to the history of India?"