‘Protected’ monument turns haven for addicts

Parvesh Sharma

Tribune News Service

Sangrur, September 9

The Sangrur Baradari, a 19th-century “protected” monument, has been awaiting renovation for the past several years. Suffering neglect, it is frequented by drug addicts these days.

Inspired by Lahore Baradari, which Maharaja Ranjit Singh had got constructed, Sangrur Baradari was built by then Jind state’s ruler Sangat Singh.

Its 12 doors, four domes and marble walls are in bad shape. Several marble pieces have been removed, even as the administration has not appointed any watchman to guard the monument.

“Its condition belies the state government’s tall claims of maintaining heritage sites and promoting tourism. Without preserving heritage buildings, how can the government promote tourism?” said Karanvir Singh Sibia, chairman of the Sangrur Heritage Preservation Society.

Though the main gate has been locked, addicts manage to enter the premises. “It was built to showcase our rich heritage, not to provide access to addicts. But these days, only addicts are seen here, while locals go back disappointed,” said Rajeev Jindal, a local writer of two books on heritage.

“I have got Sangrur heritage buildings included on the tourist circuit. Requisite funds would come in the near future,” Cabinet Minster Vijay Inder Singla said after a workers’ meeting at his residence here on Sunday.

When The Tribune visited the Baradari, three groups of addicts were seen smoking and chewing tobacco.

When contacted, Malwinder Singh Jaggi, Director, Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Punjab, said a detailed plan was being prepared for the renovation of all heritage sites in the state.

“Work is going on at a fast pace to renovate and maintain neglected heritage buildings. We have got reports about Baradari and will take appropriate action, he added.

No watchman to guard premises

• Inspired by Lahore Baradari, which Maharaja Ranjit Singh had got constructed, Sangrur Baradari was built by then Jind state’s ruler Sangat Singh 
• Its 12 doors, four domes and marble walls are in bad shape. Several marble pieces have been removed, even as the administration has not appointed any watchman to guard the monument
• Though the main gate has been locked, addicts manage to enter the premises