Will consider transfer of Valmiki temple land to community: HP

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh today said the state government would consider transferring land of the Krishnanagar Maharshi Valmiki temple to the Valmiki community here.
"The state government would consider transferring the land of the Maharshi Valmiki temple in Krishnanagar (Shimla) to the Valmiki community," he said at the 'Prakat Utsava' here.
The Chief Minister asked the Valmiki Sabha to submit all related documents for the transfer of the temple's land to it.
Expressing concern over delay in construction of a housing colony in the Krishnanagar ward, he said, "The concerned authorities would be directed to accelerate the pace of work and make proper provision for basic amenities and beautification of the area."

He assured the community members would not be asked to vacate their 'Dharas' (sheds) till they get their own houses.
The state government has already restored water and electricity connections to people living in 'dharas' and will make efforts to rehabilitate them, he said.

Mentioning contributions of Dr B R Ambedkar, he said, "He was not only the architect of the constitution but also a great economist, politician and social reformer."
His efforts to eradicate social evils like untouchability and caste restrictions were remarkable, Singh said.
"The unity and integrity of the nation could be maintained only if people of all religions and sects live in harmony. Unfortunately, few forces always try to disturb the harmony and we should work together against them," he added.