Saturday 04 / May / 2024
Muscat: A group of four Indian tourists who vandalised the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi were ordered to fix the pillars they toppled over and pay a fine of 70,000 rupees.
The men were caught after a viral video of them pushing a pillar down went viral, causing outrage across India.
The Archaeological Survey Of India said in a statement, "Four persons caught by Police in connection with the vandalism at Hampi.
"Based on video clip circulated on social media, Police have caught 4 persons from Madhya Pradesh. The accused are in custody and have accepted the mistake."
Netizens took to social media to express outrage at what many perceived was a light punishment.
Activist Anuraag Saxena tweeted, "What nonsense! How can we let the Hampi culprits off so easily? Low deterrents will only encourage more of these criminals."
One user, Praveen Mohan, stated, "How can anyone destroy these priceless ancient structures? Someone sent me this video and this is just UNACCEPTABLE!"
Indian entrepreneur Ram Prasad added, "This is insane at so many levels.
"Re-erecting pillars should be done by professionals. They are not random stones. A fine of Rs. 70,000 is way lower than the maximum limit."
"Letting them go is the biggest joke. A strong deterrent is needed. The allows imprisonment."
Hampi was the last capital of the south Indian Vijayanagar kingdom. Its stunning Dravidian architecture has attracted admirers, travellers, and pilgrims for years.
