Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958
The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958, is a key Indian law for protecting historical sites.
Why in News?
- Frequently cited in cases of encroachments near sites like Mamallapuram temple; ASI addresses complaints on daily life impacts while upholding protections.
- Ongoing relevance in 2022-2024 discussions on balancing heritage conservation with urban needs, as in Swaniti reports.
- ASI enforces against violations, with recent focus on post-1992 illegal builds via local authority data.
Purpose
- Enacted in 1958 to preserve ancient monuments, archaeological sites of national importance, regulate excavations, and protect sculptures or carvings.
- Defines "ancient monument" as any structure, tumulus, cave, rock-sculpture, inscription, or monolith over 100 years old with historical, archaeological, or artistic value.
Key Provisions
- Prohibits construction within 100 meters (prohibited area) of protected monuments; extends to 200 meters as regulated area for further controls.
- Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) surveys sites, identifies post-1992 constructions, and enforces rules; requires permissions for repairs or public works.
- Bans new builds in prohibited zones post-2010 amendment; allows pre-1992 structure repairs with approval from National Monument Authority (NMA).
Amendments
- 2010 Amendment created NMA for monument classification, clarified terms like "construction" and "renovation," and mandated ASI surveys of zones.
- 2017 proposal sought to permit public works in prohibited areas, sparking preservation vs. development debates.
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