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Writer's picturethelila500
Feb 7, 20233 min read

Is Destroying National Monuments Criminal Offense

A monument is a particular kind of building that was specifically designed to honor someone or something; it may also have acquired significance to a social group as a Because of its artistic, historical, political, technological, or architectural significance, it has become a part of people's collective memory or cultural heritage.


Some of the first monuments were megalithic constructions called dolmens and menhirs, which were built for ritual or funerary purposes. Among the various types of monuments are statues, (war) memorials, historic homes, locations, and cultural assets. A monument, for instance, may be included on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list if the public is interested in its preservation.


The length and width of India are covered in numerous ancient and cultural monuments. These are of utmost importance to our nation's riches and strength. Because of these landmarks, the tourism sector is booming. The main goal is to preserve them and to keep them safe from harm and destruction of any type.


Any construction, erection, monument, tumulus, or place of interment, as well as any cave, rock-sculpture, inscription, or monolith that is of historical, archaeological, or artistic interest, are considered to be ancient monuments and that has been in existence for not less than 100 years," according to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).


Consequently, a number of pieces of legislation have been passed. Each State Party to this Convention acknowledges that it is their responsibility to ensure the identification, protection, conservation, presentation, and transmission of the cultural and natural heritage, i.e. those sites which can be considered for inscription on the World Heritage List. India has ratified the UNESCO World Heritage Convention.

Legal Provisions:

  • In accordance with Article 49 of the Indian Constitution, "protection of monuments, sites, and objects of national importance Every monument, location, or item of artistic or historic interest that has been declared by or under a law established by Parliament to be of national importance must be protected by the State from spoliation, disfigurement, destruction, removal, disposal, or export, as applicable.

  • The Indian Constitution's Article 51A (g) calls for the preservation and enhancement of the natural environment, including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, as well as compassion for all living things.

  • The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (AMASR Act) of 1958 is a law passed by the Indian Parliament that establishes guidelines for the protection of sculptures, carvings, and other similar artifacts as well as the preservation of important historical and archaeological sites and remains. The present three-month sentence and fee of Rs 5,000 for such infractions has been increased to two years in prison and a fine of up to Rs one lakh. This will probably serve as deterrence to anyone who intentionally harms or defaces the monuments.

  • The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972 was passed to control the export of antiquities and art treasures and to prohibit fraud and antiquities smuggling. The 1878 Indian Treasure Trove Act governs valuables discovered in India.

  • These monuments are also safeguarded under the Prevention of Damage of Public Property Act of 1984. India is renowned throughout the world for the rich history that our predecessors left behind. Every legacy tells a different, beautiful tale from the past, which gives the country its own identity. Threats to the legacy include industries, terrorism, vandalism, pollution, land acquisition, agricultural operations, a lack of civic virtue, and construction or sewages in and around the area.

India has 40 World Heritage Sites total, 32 of which are cultural, 7 of which are natural, and 1 mixed site. Additionally, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is in charge of 3,691 monuments that have been designated as monuments of national significance.


India can protect its cultural and historic resources while fostering local economies by creating jobs, new enterprises, and tax money for the government by promoting heritage tourism. The local inhabitants and tourists need to be made aware of the heritage resource and encouraged to support its preservation.


Criminal Lawyer in Kolkata can be appointed if the case has been filed in Kolkata. Likewise, if the case has been filed in Delhi then a Criminal Lawyers in Delhi can be appointed Criminal Lawyer in Mumbai.


We provide a variety of expertise and legal services at Lead India. You can ask a legal question here. To get the greatest guidance in this situation, talk to a lawyer. Our team of attorneys understands the ins and outs of the law which will help you in making informed decisions. You can also get free legal advice online.


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