By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 27 May: Residents and members of the Matawala Bagh Hanuman Mandir Sangharsh Samiti, on Sunday, staged a peaceful protest outside Gandhi Park on Rajpur Road, expressing frustration over the lack of police action following the demolition of a historic temple and wrestling arena at Matawala Bagh on 16 March.
Speaking to Garhwal Post, the committee members have warned the administration of continued agitation in protest against the administration and the police inaction in the demolition case despite past assurances in this regard.
The committee members shared that the protesters, including wrestlers Aman Swedia and Gopal Krishna, allege that anti-social elements have demolished the akhara and temple, and have used caste-based slurs against members of the Valmiki community. Despite a police complaint filed nearly two months ago, no investigation has been initiated, contradicting earlier assurances given to the committee members.
The akhara, associated with the property of Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib, has been a training ground for wrestlers since 1990, producing athletes who have represented Uttarakhand in national and international competitions. The adjacent Hanuman Temple has also been a centre for anti-drug campaigns and community activities besides rendering religious and spiritual services.
Concerns have also been raised about environmental degradation, with reports of indiscriminate tree felling within the Matawala Bagh complex, but the administration under the influence of powerful groups with vested interests has allegedly chosen to look the other way. Previous protests have also alleged cutting of trees and the imposition of entry fees into the area, sparking public outrage. In April, a meeting at the SSP’s office led to an agreement between parties to restrict entry into Matawala Bagh until a court decision is made. The Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib retains ownership of the property, and alternative arrangements are being considered for wrestlers to continue their practice. Despite these developments, protesters demand immediate action against those responsible for the demolition and the alleged caste-based offenses. They warn of escalating their protests if the administration continues to delay the investigation. The local people and the committee await a thorough investigation into the allegations so that the genuine grievances can be addressed
