The Supreme Court on Friday sought a response from the Centre on a plea filed by former Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy, urging the government to take a decision on declaring the Ram Setu as a national monument.
A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta issued notice to the Centre and posted the matter for hearing after four weeks.
Ram Setu And The Plea
Ram Setu, also known as Adam’s Bridge, is a natural chain of limestone shoals connecting Pamban Island off Tamil Nadu’s southeastern coast with Mannar Island in Sri Lanka. The site has long been a matter of historical, archaeological, and religious significance.
In his plea, Swamy argued that the Centre has failed to act on its assurance given to the court in January 2023 that the matter was under consideration. He stressed that the government is duty-bound to protect Ram Setu from pollution, desecration, or misuse, given its cultural and religious importance.
On January 19, 2023, the Supreme Court had recorded the Centre’s submission that the issue of declaring Ram Setu a national heritage monument was being examined by the Ministry of Culture. The Solicitor General had told the court that Swamy could provide additional materials or representations within two weeks for consideration.
The court had then directed the Centre to take a decision and allowed Swamy the liberty to return to court if he was dissatisfied. His interim application was disposed of on that basis.
No Action Yet, Says Swamy
Swamy’s latest petition contends that despite the court’s directions, no decision has been communicated either to him or to the Supreme Court. He said he had submitted a detailed representation to the government on January 27, 2023, with supporting documents, and again sent a fresh representation on May 13, 2025.
The petition underlined that Ram Setu is not only an archaeological site but also a matter of “faith and shradha” for millions who regard it as a pilgrimage site. It added that scientific and archaeological findings support the belief in the structure’s significance, strengthening the case for its protection.
Swamy has requested the apex court to direct the Ministry of Culture to take a time-bound decision on his representations, in line with the January 2023 order.
The court will now hear the matter after 4 weeks, when the Centre is expected to place its stand on record.
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