‘Asia’s Largest’ Ram Statue Construction Suspended

Authorities of the Sri Sri Radha Govinda and Kali Temple in Palashbari, Gaibandha, have announced the temporary suspension of the construction of a proposed “Asia’s Largest Ram Statue.” The decision was made in response to growing public debate over the project's funding sources, concerns about maintaining law and order, and the need to preserve communal harmony.

The suspension was officially announced during a press conference held on Thursday afternoon.

Temple authorities stated that the project had sparked various opinions, questions, and protests from different groups. They said the decision was taken to uphold communal harmony and show respect for the religious sentiments of the Muslim community. However, they emphasized that the move was not made under pressure from the administration, political parties, or any other external group.

Temple committee leaders said, “We are Bengalis. We believe in maintaining cordial relations with people of all faiths. Future decisions regarding the project will be made after consultations with members of the Hindu community.” They added that the temple’s regular religious and social activities would continue as usual.

Meanwhile, the Imam-Ulama Council held a separate press conference demanding the complete cancellation of the Ram statue project. The event took place in the hall room of the Upazila Model Mosque on Thursday afternoon, where the organization called for the permanent halt of all related activities.

Earlier, on Wednesday, the local administration organized a harmony meeting aimed at maintaining communal peace, mutual respect, and social stability. The meeting was held at the Upazila Parishad Hall Room and was chaired by Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Sheikh Jaber Ahmed. The chief guest was Member of Parliament for Gaibandha-3 (Palashbari-Sadullapur), Principal Abul Kawser Md. Nazrul Islam (Lebu).

Speakers at the meeting urged residents to avoid rumors, provocations, and misinformation and to work together to maintain peace and coexistence.

According to local sources, a press conference demanding the cancellation of the statue project was also held on Wednesday at the Public Library Auditorium in Hosenpur Union. The event was jointly organized by the Gaibandha District branch of the Imam-Ulama Council and local civil society representatives. Prior to that, an eight-point memorandum had been submitted to the Prime Minister through the Deputy Commissioner.

In a written statement, Imam-Ulama Council District Secretary Mufti Mansur Rahman Khan said that construction of a large Ram statue was underway in Hosenpur Union and that it was reportedly being planned as the world’s largest Ram statue.

He claimed that the project had generated widespread discussion, concern, and feelings of insecurity among local residents. According to him, the development of a large-scale statue, tourism facilities, and resort infrastructure around a temple in the Rangpur region could potentially lead to communal tensions, social instability, and challenges to law and order in the future.

The press conference also called for an impartial investigation into allegations made against project entrepreneur Haridas Chandra. Speakers alleged that he had been accused of extremist behavior, irregularities, and other misconduct, and demanded that the claims be independently verified.

Among the eight demands outlined in the memorandum were a comprehensive investigation into the project's funding sources, expenditure, involvement of domestic and foreign individuals or organizations, and financial transactions; verification of bank accounts and asset sources of those involved; an inquiry into alleged foreign funding or influence through intelligence agencies; assessment of potential impacts on national security, social stability, and communal harmony; legal action if allegations are proven; examination of claims regarding foreign diplomatic involvement; appropriate diplomatic measures if any undesirable foreign interference is found; and effective steps to preserve peace and communal harmony in Gaibandha District and the wider Rangpur Division.

The Ram statue project has remained the subject of extensive public debate at both local and national levels in recent weeks. The temple authority’s decision to suspend construction is being viewed by many as a significant step toward easing tensions and maintaining social harmony.

EN/SA