VHP criticises 'specialist committee' on Ram SetHu

Allahabad, Oct 17 (UNI) International President of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) Ashok Singhal today alleged that those chosen for the Ram Sethu specialist committee were prejudiced and possessed atheist thinking and have no specialisation in the subjects related to the under-sea bridge.

Talking to newspersons here, Mr Singhal said on the contrary, there were many such scientists and scholars, who have done serious study of Ram Sethu related subjects such as religion, culture, archaeology, submarine, military science, environment, climate, atomic energy, tsunami and meteorology.

''So far, the government's attitude regarding the Sethusamudaram canal project seems to be partial and full of doubts,'' he claimed.

At first, the government's affidavit hurt the sentiments of crores of Hindus, he added.

''The government withdrew its affidavit at that time, saying it will put forward its views in the first week of January and during the period the dismantling of the Sethu shall remain suspended, but after setting up of committee, it seems the government is still adamant on completion of the project by breaking the bridge,'' he alleged.

The VHP international president said ''a meeting of saints, fixed for November 13 would decide the future course of movement and the date of demonstration.

Mr Singhal appealed to the government to include only qualified persons in the committee, so that transparency will be maintained.

He suggested that a committee should be constituted with the advice of ex-president A P J Abdul Kalam, who guarantees its panel of scholars and scientists.

Besides, experts from Sri Lanka should be included.

Replying to a question, Mr Singhal noted ''no political party, including DMK could dare to launch agitation in favour of dismantling of Ram Sethu.'' UNI JL JAS KK GC1716