VHP demands assurance for safety of Ramsetu

Jaipur, June 28 (UNI) The Vishwa Hindu Parishad today accused the UPA Government of implementing the Setu Samudram Canal project on insistence of the US and said it would launch a nationwide agitation if the government failed to assure the safety of the ancient Ramsetu near Danushkoti.

''The UPA Government, in its bid to appease the US administration was eagar to build the proposed canal to create a short international route for ships between India and Sri Lanka without bothering about the possible threat to national security,'' VHP General Secretary Pravin Togadia said here.

With the construction of the Setu Samudram canal, ships of all countries, including war ships, would have an easier approach to our land boundaries,'' he said.

Moreover, the government was also insisting on destroying mythological Ramsetu which according to popular Hindu faith and belief was constructed by Lord Ram.

Mr Togadia said if the government was adamant on the project it could be implemented without destroying the 31 mile-long ancient bridge(setu) and the VHP want a categorical assurance from the government for the safety of Ramsetu.

He said a slight modification in the project plans could pave way for Setu Samudram canal without destroying mythological structure.

He said if the government failed to make the assurance the VHP would launch a nationwide agitation for the safety of the setu.

The announcement of the agitation would be made at a congregation of Hindu saints being organised by the VHP in New Delhi on July 25 and 26.

The preliminary discussion on the future course of action over the issue was also held at the VHP Central Management Committee meeting which began here today.

A formal resolution for the defence of the Ramsetu was also tabled at the opening session of the meeting today, Mr Togadia said.

UNI