Bhadrak: Bhadrak district has its share of contribution to the national freedom struggle. Lunia shootout in Dhamnagar, Iram massacre in Basudevpur and burning of the police outpost in Bhandaripokhari are some of the notable incidents that have been etched in history.
‘Father of the Nation’ Mahatma Gandhi had visited the district thrice during the pre-independence time and after his visits, the freedom struggle here had received major boost.
Ironically, the memorabilia of Mahatma Gandhi at different places in the district have not been maintained properly and are unprotected.
In an effort to preserve and protect Gandhiji’s personal belongings, articles and the history associated with it, the Central government had planned ‘Gandhi Circuit Yojana’ but this scheme has not been implemented in this district.
After Independence, a land in the district was named after Mahatma Gandhi but the statue built there lies neglected. It has now turned unrecognizable due to the lack of proper maintenance.
The district administration also has not taken any initiative to protect the memorabilia associated with the legendary leader. The ‘Gandhi Temple’ and ‘Gandhi Odisha Balashram’ in the district are suffering from neglect.
‘Gandhi Bichar Manch’, a local outfit, has been demanding for protection and renovation of all places related to Mahatama Gandhi but no step has been taken yet in this regard, it is alleged.
Notably, Gandhiji had stayed at ‘Mahatab Kotha’ December 23, 1923 and July 3, 1934. Another important place that perpetuates the memory of Gandhiji is ‘Gandhi Odisha Balashram’ where he had stayed for three days. His khadi clothes, arat, chakki and his cot have been kept there.
Local Gandhians opined that these memorabilia need to be preserved in a museum or else, these historical items will cease to exist.
PNN
