The Keezhadi excavation had provided evidence for the existence of a secular civilisation dating back to the S... Read More

CHENNAI: After he completed the first and second phases of excavation at Keezhadi in Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu , presenting evidence of an ancient urban civilization dating back to the Sangam era, he got a transfer order. Now, K Amarnath Ramakrishna , superintending archaeologist at the ASI Guwahati circle, has been denied permission to participate as a guest of honour in an event organised by the Federation of Tamil Sangam in the US to talk about his findings.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has given no reason for refusal of permission. “I don’t know why I am not allowed to go. I don’t want to comment further on this,” Amarnath told TOI over phone on Sunday. ASI director (antiquity) D N Dimri said some circles take such decisions depending on certain situations. “I am not fully aware of the reason behind the denial of permission. Officials can travel if there is sufficient reason. But not all such tours will be sanctioned,” he said.

On April 2, FeTNA sent a letter to Amarnath inviting him to be a guest of honour and participate in the discussion forum and deliver lectures on his recent excavations in Tamil Nadu. On April 26, Amarnath wrote to the deputy director of ASI, seeking permission to attend the event. ASI deputy director Tara Chandar replied on May 25, saying, “I am directed to say that the competent authority has not acceded to your request...” FeTNA member P P Ramakrishnan termed it unfortunate.

Activists question motives of ASI

He said, “The convention is expected to draw more than 5,000 people. We lost an opportunity to know more about a great excavation led by Amarnath (Ramakrishna).”

Heritage activists have raised questions about the ASI's motive in denying him permission to participate in the event to be held from June 29 to July 1.

They allege that Amarnath’s excavation found material that proved a ‘secular’ society existed in Keezhadi. “Some influential sections in the Union government see these findings as going against Vedic culture,” said a heritage expert who did not want to be named. “Not a single figurine of a god or goddess was found at the Keezhadi site.”

Rock art expert K T Gandhirajan said denying permission to the archaeologist was unfair. “The ASI may have its reasons. But he knew the minutest details regarding the Keezhadi excavation. It would have helped the Tamil diaspora get a clear picture,” he said.

