In a concerning development, it has been brought to light that a private individual has constructed a Reliance mobile tower on the premises of the historic Mahaganapati Temple in Dambala village of Mundaragi taluk, Gadag district. This encroachment on a site of cultural and religious significance has sparked outrage among locals and raised questions about the negligence of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in safeguarding heritage sites.

The Mahaganapati Temple holds immense historical and religious value, serving as a sacred place of worship for generations. However, the unauthorized construction of a mobile tower on its grounds has not only desecrated the sanctity of the temple but also poses a threat to its structural integrity and cultural heritage.

Reports indicate that the private individual responsible for the construction of the mobile tower is also profiting from it financially, further exacerbating concerns over the exploitation and misuse of heritage sites for personal gain. Based on information obtained from the Dambala Panchayat office, it has been confirmed that no permission was granted for the construction or establishment of any structure in the particular area. it has been revealed that permission was previously granted for a different purpose in the same vicinity. Consequently, the construction of the Reliance mobile tower on the premises of the historic Mahaganapati Temple is deemed illegal, raising serious concerns regarding adherence to regulatory protocols and the preservation of cultural heritage.

The encroachment has triggered widespread condemnation from various quarters, with demands for immediate action to rectify the situation and hold those responsible accountable. Local authorities, including the ASI, are facing scrutiny for their alleged negligence in preventing such encroachments and safeguarding heritage sites effectively.