New Delhi: After the Jain community demanded to scrap a 2019 Jharkhand government notification designating Parasnath Hills as a tourist place, union tourism minister G Kishan Reddy said no steps will be taken to hurt the sentiments of the Jain community.
The Jain community fears that the designation of a tourist destination will lead to the consumption of liquor and non-vegetarian food by visitors.
Many have been demanding the protection of their sacred sites. Reddy said the Centre is already talking to the Jharkhand government about the issue. "Prime Minister Modi's government respects the sentiments of all communities and wants to convey to the Jains that it also respects their sentiments."
"No step will be taken to desecrate the sacred place. I want to assure you that to save this sacred place, the central government will try its best. I have written a letter to the chief minister while the (tourism) ministry is also taking it up with the state government," ensured the tourism minister.
He clarified that no order has been issued by the Union Tourism Ministry with regard to the Parasnath Hills. When asked about the proposed move to make the site an eco-sensitive zone (ESZ), the minister said such a move will ensure more protection for the site.