UNI

Patna, May 3: Opposing the Centre's proposal to dismantle the 'Ram Setu' in Rameshwaram, Chandra Swami, the controversial tantrik, said the Ram Setu should be protected and conserved as 'national cultural heritage'.

The Swami urged the Centre to protect the Setu since it is a 'national cultural heritage' and auspicious for all religions.

Talking to newspersons here yesterday, he said the emotional sentiment of the people, especially that of the Hindus, would be hurt if the Setu was dismantled.

He is now trying to create mass awareness against the Centre's decision with the help of spiritual, religious and social leaders.

Swami claimed he was getting support from Jagatguru Shankarachayra, Morari Bapu across the country in his 'cultural tour mission'.

He said he would also like to invite President A P J Abdul Kalam in a public meeting in Rameshwaram to garner his support on the issue. He stated that more than 5000 sadhus would assemble in Rameshwaram on June 2 to protest the Centre`s proposal.

Quoting reports of environmentalists, he said dismantling of 17.5-lac old setu would be disastrous for the environment as thousands of aquatic animals would perish.