Nationwide agitation if Ramsetu in TN destroyed: VHP

New Delhi, May 2: Alleging that ocean digging in the name Setusamudram project was a ploy to destroy 'Ramsetu', a renowned Hindu religious heritage, the VHP today threatened a nationwide agitation on the lines of Ram Temple if the government did not desist from the move.

Addressing a press conference, VHP president Ashok Singhal said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was 'misleading' the nation by saying that no harm would happen to Ransetu with the digging of the ocean for the Setusamudram project.

''With the digging of the ocean there seems to be a ploy to destroy an ancient heritage that was dear to the Hindus. A nation-wide agitation, which had the support of all Shankaracharyas, would be undertaken to protect Ramsetu if the government fails to heed our advice,'' he warned.

Mr Singhal informed that several Hindu delegations have petitioned the government to stop work at the site immediately and find an alternative site to the Setusamudram project so as to save the Ramsetu.

For this on May 27 a huge congregation of 'dharmacharyas' would take place in Ram Lila Maidan in Delhi to chalk out the future course of the propose agitation against destruction of Ramsetu, he said adding that prior to this the 'sants' would hold 'jagran sabhas' (awakening meets) to enlighten the people on the issue.

''I have sent a letter to the Prime Minister demanding immediate stopping of work on Setusamudram project and get it scientifically evaluated for an alternate site,'' he informed.

The VHP leader also demanded that Ramsetu, whose existence had been proved by satellite photos of NASA and space shuttle 'Endeavour' of the US and established by scientists as a man-made entity, be scheduled under the Ancient Monuments Act.

UNI