New Delhi: The Ministry of Culture on Saturday clarified its stand on the ongoing excavation of gold in Unnao by the Archaeological Survey of India and said that the excavation is being carrying after ascertaining facts. A statement issued by the Ministry said that the excavation is being done after the Geological Survey of India's report and not because of a Sadhu's dream.
According to the government, the GSI had reported of possible non-conducting metallic contents or alloys at 5-20 meters below the surface and suggested excavation.
"The Geological Survey of India had been asked to conduct an enquiry including GPRS (Ground Penetrating Radar Survey). On the basis of GSI report it was decided by ASI to undertake excavations at the site to try to unearth and determine the nature of the reported deposits. It is also noteworthy to mention that this is reported to be an ancient settlement site which may have the potential of being an important archaeological location," the statement said.
It also said, "This is reported to be an ancient settlement site which may have the potential of being an important archaeological location. The SA (Lucknow Circle) was conveyed permission on October 10, 2013 to undertake the trial exploration/excavations by deputing a full team from his office. Preparatory arrangements have been made by ASI Lucknow Circle, including preliminary survey of the area, establishing camp office, removal of vegetation, etc. The local administration has been informed about this and security arrangements have also been provided."
The ministry added that the excavation will be completed in a time period of 2-3 weeks.
Ex-Additional Director General BR Mani said, "We have started excavation yesterday. Our Lucknow circle of ASI is doing the excavation on archaeological principles and it is continuing there. It has nothing to do with the dream of any sadhu or particular person."
Dr Sayed Jamal Hasan, Director exploration, ASI said, "The government has never claimed that 1,000 tonnes of gold will be found. We as archaeologists expect to find new things and civilizations. We connect the new findings to old ones and compare them. Our work is nothing but research."
This has been a 'Peepli Live' moment in Dhaundia Kheda village as media teams, thousands of curious onlookers and even a mini market has thronged to see as a team of 12 archaeologists are excavating the ruins of a fort.
It is being said that political pressure from his disciple Congress leader Bhakt Charan Das ensured that the digging begins even though not everyone has been as hopeful as him of striking gold.
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