SRINAGAR, SEPT 23: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Wednesday visited the historic Sheetal Nath Temple in Srinagar and emphasised the need to preserve the city’s rich cultural, religious and historical heritage for future generations.
During his visit, Dulloo highlighted the historical significance of the temple, traditionally regarded as one of the eight Bhairavas associated with the protection of Srinagar. He said preserving such heritage sites was a collective responsibility.
“It is our heritage and it is our duty as a society to protect our heritage and pass it on to future generations,” Dulloo said.
The Chief Secretary also spoke about the temple’s history and the role of the Sanatan Dharma Sabha in its upkeep. He said the shrine suffered damage in 1991 and was subsequently repaired by the Sabha.
Dulloo noted that the significance of Sheetal Nath extends beyond its religious importance, as the temple has historically served as a gathering place for various social and cultural occasions.
He also referred to religious and cultural programmes such as Janmashtami and Basant Panchami being organised at the site.
Speaking to reporters during the visit, Dulloo was also asked about the scrutiny of books in government educational institutions.
He said examination of books was part of the routine administrative process and made it clear that books officially prohibited by the authorities cannot be kept in government schools.
His remarks came a day after the Jammu and Kashmir Government informed the Legislative Assembly that 4,249 books, apart from 518 banned books, had been withdrawn from circulation from government degree college libraries across the Union Territory.
