Youth Booked for Setting Vasai Fort Memorial Stone on Fire to Shoot Social Media Reel

The police have charged Hashim Shaikh under section 30(1) of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. This act specifically safeguards historical monuments and sites from any form of damage or defacement.

Youth Booked for Setting Vasai Fort Memorial Stone on Fire to Shoot Social Media Reel
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The Vasai police have taken action against a youth who allegedly set a memorial stone on fire at Vasai Fort in order to create an Instagram reel. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), responsible for safeguarding the historical site, filed a complaint against the youth, prompting the police to initiate an investigation into the matter. An Indian Express report shared more details.

Viral Video Captures Accused Carving and Setting Memorial Stone Ablaze

According to the police, a viral video emerged showing the accused youth using a chemical to carve the letter 'S' onto the memorial stone before setting it alight. The video was accompanied by the song 'Bewafa' as background music. The memorial stone, one of several dedicated to soldiers erected by the Portuguese in 1680, suffered significant damage due to the incident.

ASI Takes Action Following Outrage and Video Circulation

The ASI officials, upon learning of the viral video and subsequent news reports, visited Vasai Fort to assess the situation. After conducting a thorough inspection, they filed a formal complaint against the youth identified as Hashim Shaikh. The ASI expressed deep concern over the desecration of the memorial stone and demanded appropriate action be taken against the perpetrator.

Police Charges Youth Under Monument Protection Act

The police have charged Hashim Shaikh under section 30(1) of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. This act specifically safeguards historical monuments and sites from any form of damage or defacement. The police are currently in the process of identifying witnesses and conducting further investigations into the incident.

ASI Issues Warning and Urges Respect for Historical Monuments

In response to this incident, the ASI has taken measures to prevent further damage to the monument. They have installed a notice board at Vasai Fort, cautioning visitors against engaging in activities that harm or disrespect the historical site. The ASI emphasized the need for public awareness and preservation of the fort's historical significance.

Public Outrage and Demands for Action Against the Perpetrator

The desecration of the memorial stone at Vasai Fort, as shown in the viral video, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for immediate action against the responsible individual. The incident has drawn public attention to the need for stricter measures to protect historical sites and honor the sacrifices made by martyred soldiers.

Conservationist Highlights Fort's Deterioration and Lack of Protection

Fort conservationist Shridatta Raut has written a letter to the ASI, urging them to take swift action against the youth responsible for damaging the memorial stone. Raut drew attention to the deteriorating condition of the fort and its artifacts, attributing the damage to both weather conditions and mistreatment by visitors. Raut criticized the authorities for their inaction in safeguarding the fort, pointing out the insufficient number of security guards on duty.

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