Ancient Treasures and Tensions Surface at Gadag Temple Excavation
In a significant archaeological development, the ongoing excavation at the premises of the Kote Veerabhadreshwara Temple in Lakkundi village, Gadag taluk, has yielded fascinating discoveries over the past eight days. The dig, which has captured the attention of historians and locals alike, has unearthed a variety of ancient items, including bone fragments, a small green-colored stone, and a piece of iron, adding to the rich tapestry of Karnataka's heritage.
Archaeological Discoveries Unveiled
Led by the State Department of Archaeology, in collaboration with the district administration and the Lakkundi Heritage Area Development Authority, the excavation has been a treasure trove of historical artifacts. So far, the team has uncovered several ancient remains, such as archaeological fragments, bones, shells, and broken pottery shards. Among the notable finds are a Naga stone, the panipitha (ablution base) of a Shiva linga, a stone bearing a Jain image, and a terracotta disc. These discoveries are expected to shed light on the region's cultural and religious history, potentially dating back centuries.
The excavation site, declared a prohibited area by the district deputy commissioner's orders, is part of a broader initiative to showcase Lakkundi's historical heritage to the world. Officials have emphasized the importance of preserving these finds for future study and public display.
Labor Protest Erupts at the Site
Amidst the excitement of the archaeological finds, the excavation site became a flashpoint for labor unrest. Members of a support workers' union attempted to stage a protest, alleging that laborers engaged in the work were not being provided with wage hikes and basic facilities by the Lakkundi Development Authority. This led to a heated verbal altercation between residents and the protesters, with tensions escalating quickly.
Ashwath Marigoudar, the state unit president of the union, along with his team, arrived at the site and allegedly attempted to halt the excavation work. Locals strongly objected, accusing the protesters of deliberately trying to disrupt a development initiative aimed at highlighting Lakkundi's historical significance. The confrontation highlighted the delicate balance between heritage preservation and labor rights in such projects.
Police Intervention and Resolution
Officials questioned the protesters on how they entered the restricted zone without permission and instructed them not to disrupt the work. They advised the union members to take their grievances to the concerned authorities instead. Following this, the protesters were asked to leave the site to prevent further disturbances.
Gadag Rural police intervened to defuse the situation and restore order. In a move to maintain peace, Ashwath Marigoudar, who led the protest, along with members Venkatesh and Raviraj, were taken into police custody. This action underscored the authorities' commitment to ensuring that the archaeological work proceeds without hindrance, while also addressing labor concerns through proper channels.
The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges in managing large-scale heritage projects, where historical exploration must coexist with contemporary social issues. As the excavation continues, stakeholders hope for a resolution that respects both the past and the present.
