The revamped version of the Jallianwala Bagh Smarak inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 28, is receiving strong criticism from opposition leaders and historians. However, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has maintained a contradictory stand saying the renovation looks nice to him.
Earlier today, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi through a tweet said, "Such an insult to the martyrs of Jallianwala Bagh can only be done by those who do not know the meaning of martyrdom. I am the son of a martyr - I will not tolerate the insult of martyrs at any cost. We are against this indecent cruelty”.
Many other leaders also joined the chorus and said that the renovations including laser show etc has only trivialised the sacrifice of scores of men and women and the work should have been stopped at the outset.
Meanwhile, Punjab CM Capt Amarinder Singh, contrary to what his party high command feels, said "I don't know what has been removed. To me it looks very nice," he told reporters today.
Capt Amarinder's remarks come amid a crisis within the state congress, where a section of leaders have questioned his leadership and sought his removal from the top post.
Besides, other opposition leaders had also criticized the renovations, saying the new construction robbed the place of dignity, of the loss and horror of the day 102 years ago when British General Dyer opened fire on a peaceful protest.
CPM's Sitaram Yechury, citing the history of the right wing, tweeted, "Only those who stayed away from the epic freedom struggle can scandalise thus”.