Khatana raises concerns in RS over protection, preservation of J&K’s historical buildings

STATE TIMES NEWS

NEW DELHI : Senior BJP leader and Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha Nominated) Er. Gulam Ali Khatana today raised concerns in the Rajya Sabha (RS) regarding the protection and preservation of historical buildings, including Shri Maharaja Gulab Singh (SMGS) Hospital, Shalamar and Ranbir Higher Secondary School (formerly SRML / Ranbir Pathshala).
During the supplementary questions session, Khatana highlighted the historical and public importance of these institutions. He stated that SMGS Hospital, located in Shalamar, was inaugurated by Maharaja Hari Singh on 6 May 1940 and has since been serving patients from across the Jammu region, particularly in specialized departments such as Pediatrics and Gynaecology. Khatana also drew attention to Ranbir Higher Secondary School, earlier known as Ranbir Pathshala and later SRML, one of the premier educational institutions of the region. The school was founded by Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1872 and its building was constructed by Maharaja Pratap Singh in 1884. The Rajya Sabha MP appreciated that since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office, the condition and protection of historical monuments across the country have significantly improved. Khatana sought clarification from Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat regarding whether the buildings of SMGS Hospital and Ranbir School fall under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and raised concerns about their current condition, repair needs, and possible expansion or modifications.
Responding to the query, the Union Minister stated that the ASI strictly follows its conservation rules and does not allow any modifications or expansion in protected monuments. The Ministry also assured that necessary inquiries would be made regarding the preservation and upkeep of these historic structures and that appropriate steps would be taken to ensure their protection.