Patna High Court goes hard on Bihar government over upkeep of Barabar Caves
The Patna High Court has reprimanded the Bihar government for the neglect and lack of infrastructure at the historic Mauryan-era Barabar Caves. The court contrasted the site's poor condition with the successful tourism management of similar heritage sites like the Ajanta-Ellora caves in Maharashtra.
Why it matters
This highlights the tension between government revenue collection from heritage sites and the failure to reinvest in their preservation and public utility.
Expressing deep anguish over the severe administrative apathy and lack of basic amenities at the historic, Mauryan-era Barabar Caves in Jehanabad, the Patna High Court has issued a stern reprimand to the Bihar state government and local administration.
Hearing a petition, a single bench of Justice Rajiv Roy questioned the continuous negligence of the ancient site, drawing sharp comparisons to how other states preserve their cultural heritage.
The court highlighted the international significance of the 3rd-century BCE site in its order. The court was hearing a petition by one Rajballav Prasad, the successful bidder of the 2024-25 Barabar Shravani Mela challenging a penalty imposed on him for delayed payment of the tender amount.
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