Sammed Sikarji News: The Center on Thursday (January 5) directed the Jharkhand government to strictly implement the relevant provisions of the Management Plan of Parasnath Wildlife Sanctuary in the wake of massive protests by the Jain community against a recent notification issued by the state government.
The Jharkhand government, led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, had decided to convert the Jain pilgrimage center Shri Sammed Shikharji in the Parasnath hills into a tourist attraction, angering the Jain community. There were massive protests across the country against the decision of the Soren government.
Read also: Parasnath Hill protest: Know the importance of this holy place for Jain pilgrims
Union minister met the people of Jain community
After a meeting with various representatives of the Jain community, Union Environment and Forests Minister Bhupendra Yadav issued instructions to the Jharkhand government asking them to implement them immediately.
“As a result of the meeting it has been decided to direct the State Government of Jharkhand to strictly implement the relevant provisions of the Management Plan of Parasnath Wildlife Sanctuary which specifically prohibits harm to flora or fauna, coming with pets, Playing loud music or using loudspeakers; Desecrating sites or places of religious and cultural importance such as sacred monuments, lakes, rocks, caves and temples; and Sale of liquor, drugs and other intoxicants etc.; Unauthorized camping and trekking on Parasnath hill etc. the ministry said.
Read also: Why hundreds of members of Jain community came on the road. Explained
The state government has also been directed to strictly enforce the ban on sale and consumption of liquor and non-vegetarian food items on Parasnath hill.