Termination of ASI Laborers to Impact Monument Maintenance
21 July 2025 10:47 AM IST21 July 2025 10:47 AM IST
Sources revealed that around 150 casual labourers, who have been working for the past 15–20 years to maintain and protect ancient structures — mainly temples and hillock areas — were orally instructed by ASI officials not to report for duty a few days ago.
Archaeological Survey of India (Representational Image)
Anantapur: The maintenance of centuries-old historic monuments under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in the Amaravati Circle is likely to be severely affected following the decision to terminate all casual labourers. Sources revealed that around 150 casual labourers, who have been working for the past 15–20 years to maintain and protect ancient structures — mainly temples and hillock areas — were orally instructed by ASI officials not to report for duty a few days ago.
Prominent heritage sites such as Amaravati, Nagarjunakonda museums, Gandikota, Lepakshi, Salihundam, Chandragiri, and Hemavati fall under the Amaravati Circle, where these casual labourers have been deployed. The majority of them hail from the Rayalaseema region. According to sources, the workers were informed verbally that they would be terminated effective July 1.
With very few permanent staff in the Amaravati ASI Circle, authorities have long relied on casual workers not only for the upkeep of monuments but also for issuing notices to encroachers violating heritage norms. The sudden decision has left many workers in distress.
In response, the affected labourers approached historian Jasti Veeranjineyulu, seeking his support. Mr. Veeranjineyulu recently submitted a representation to the Prime Minister, urging the continuation of casual labourers' services in the Amaravati Circle.
“Many monuments are already in a deteriorated state. If these workers are removed, it will severely affect the protection of these centuries-old structures,” he lamented. The representation was also submitted to other concerned authorities in New Delhi requesting the retention of the experienced casual workforce.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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