ASI Rejects Heritage Status for Savarkar Sadan, Citing Age Limit

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Mumbai: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has told the Bombay High Court that Savarkar Sadan, a historic building in Shivaji Park once inhabited by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, cannot be declared a centrally protected monument due to its age. According to the ASI, the 1938-built structure does not meet the 100-year requirement under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. The building's Superintending Archaeologist, Abhijit Ambekar, filed an affidavit stating that Savarkar Sadan could instead be included in the state's protected monument list or the BMC heritage register, ensuring its preservation. The affidavit highlighted that Savarkar Sadan's historical significance lies in its connection to prominent figures such as Subhas Chandra Bose, Nathuram Godse, and Narayan Apte. However, the building's current state, with eight vacant flats and a small museum on the ground floor, does not justify its declaration as a 'monument of national importance.' The ASI's stance comes in response to a public interest litigation filed by Pankaj Phadnis, who sought heritage status and protection for the building. The petitioner had expressed concerns that the structure may be demolished due to redevelopment plans. While the ASI's decision may alleviate concerns about the building's demolition, it remains to be seen whether the state or BMC will take steps to preserve and protect Savarkar Sadan. The building's uncertain future has sparked debate among historians and conservationists, who argue that its historical significance warrants special attention and preservation efforts.