Statues of Lav-Kush and Maharshi Valmiki Left Damaged in Open, Exposing Administrative Negligence in Uttar Pradesh’s Shravasti

Residents who discovered the condition of the statues said they had been left exposed to dust, mud and fluctuating weather, resulting in visible damage. Locals expressed anger over what they described as an avoidable lapse by the authorities, stressing that the statues hold deep cultural and religious significance for many communities in the district.

People familiar with the matter said that despite the fair ending days earlier, no official took responsibility for ensuring the safe return or storage of the statues. Citizens have since appealed to the District Magistrate to initiate action against officials they believe failed in their duties, arguing that timely intervention could have prevented the damage and the hurt caused to public sentiment.

The incident has sparked a wider conversation about accountability within local administrative systems and the necessity of safeguarding culturally sensitive assets. For many in Shravasti, the episode underscores an urgent need for stronger oversight to ensure that such negligence does not recur.