New Delhi, Sep 02, 2023: A controversy surrounding shivling-shaped fountains in Delhi, erected in preparation for the G20 summit, has been clarified by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. Amidst claims by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) that sewage water was flowing into these fountains, Saxena explained that these structures were not religious symbols but artistic creations crafted by an artisan from Rajasthan.
Saxena further stated, “But if someone sees shivling in that, if someone sees God in that, there is no problem. India is a unique country and here trees and rivers are prayed to. God is believed to be present in every particle. I don’t think there is any controversy.”
This development comes after the AAP announced their intention to file a police complaint against Saxena for purportedly “disrespecting the sentiments of the Hindus.” AAP MP Sanjay Singh accused the LG of disrespecting the shivling, a revered symbol in Hinduism, and called on the BJP to take action.
Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj condemned Saxena’s actions as sinful, emphasizing the importance of respecting Lord Shiv’s place in temples.
The dispute over these fountains, positioned near Dhaula Kuan at the Hanuman Mandir junction in the Palam airport’s technical area, has fueled a broader credit battle between the AAP and the BJP over the beautification efforts in Delhi.
While the BJP claimed these efforts were executed by central government agencies, the AAP insisted that their government’s funds were utilized. Amidst these claims, the AAP contended that sewage water was defiling the shivling-shaped fountains.
In light of these developments, the beautification of Delhi continues in preparation for the G20 summit, with diplomatic leaders from approximately 40 nations expected to attend on September 9 and 10.
