Shankaracharya plans rally on May 13 against Ram Setu project

New Delhi, May 3 (UNI) Coming out strongly against the Centre's move to dismantle the 'Ram Setu' in Rameshwaram, Shankaracharya Swami Swaroopanand said the 17.5 lakh-year-old 'setu' was a symbol of cultural heritage and should be protected by all means.

The 'setu' which is an ancient bridge between Rameshwaram and Sri Lanka, is revered by Indians as it was built by Lord Rama and finds mention in the Puranas and Shrimad Bhagwat Gita, he said.

''The Government should respect the sentiments attached to it and choose an alternative site for the shipping canal project,'' he told reporters here.

Stressing on the need to mobilise public opinion against the Centre's move, he said all the four Shankaracharyas, religious gurus, political leaders will hold a 'maha rally' on May 13 and garner support of the people to thwart the project.

''If needed, we will go to court on the issue,'' he said.

He also said that dismantling of the bridge would result in endangering the lives of thousands of aquatic animals and destroy the sea water.

Asked to comment on the BJP's stance on the issue, he pointed out that the project had been initiated during the NDA regime and hence they were equally responsible for it.

The Shankaracharya said delegates have been meeting the Prime Minister, senior political leaders, MPs on the issue and every effort is being made to impress upon the Government to abandon the move to dismantle the historic bridge.

When asked to react on VHP leader Ashok Singhal's allegation that he was was trying to hijack the Ram Setu movement, he said,''Why did not Singhal object when the NDA government made the proposal?'' UNI