Peeved at the fact that the medieval fort here continues to remain in a pathetic condition necessitating immediate restoration works, its present custodian, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), has given an ultimatum to the Palakkad District Collector to immediately relocate major State government establishments functioning within the complex. A special sub-jail, the taluk supply office, tahsildar office and an office of land reforms function from the complex.
Despite continuous pressure from historians, there were no solid steps to shift the offices. After the takeover, the ASI restored most parts of the structure apart from converting it into one of the major tourism spots in the State. However, the portion that houses the State government offices and jail remained an eyesore because of the absence of any restoration works.
“The jail has 130 inmates at present apart from staff strength of 25. A multi-storeyed jail complex is coming up at Malampuzha but it will take time. The department will have to search for alternative arrangements if the ASI demands immediate relocation,” said A. Appukkutty, deputy prison officer.
Jail officers said the pathetic condition of the jail itself violated the rights of inmates.
The offices and jail were functioning in the same portion of the fort since Independence. District Collector P. Marykutty has confirmed the receipt of the ASI directive and said she was in touch with higher-ups to look for alternative arrangements.
Long-pending demand
ASI sources said they had been raising the issue at the State-level coordination committee for protection of monuments for long. Though the Culture Secretary had promised last February that the District Collector would vacate the offices soon, nothing happened so far.
