The Supreme Court on Friday rejected a petition seeking to declare the city of Agra in Uttar Pradesh as a World Heritage Site.
The plea aimed to gain UNESCO recognition for the city, much like the Taj Mahal, a globally renowned monument located in Agra.
A Bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih heard the plea and expressed their discontent with the argument presented by the petitioners.
Justice Oka questioned the practical utility of declaring the entire city as a World Heritage Site, asking, “Will the city become cleaner after it is declared a World Heritage City?” The judge emphasized that no clear benefits or legal provisions were cited to support the request for such a declaration.
The application was part of a broader set of petitions related to environmental clearances and developmental activities around the Taj Mahal.
The counsel for the petitioners sought additional time to provide justifications for the request, but the court declined, stating that the plea did not demonstrate how the proposed status would improve the city or comply with any legal framework.
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
World Heritage Sites are designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) based on their cultural, historical, or scientific significance.
The petition sought to elevate Agra’s status by capitalizing on its historical landmarks, such as the Taj Mahal. However, the Court found that merely receiving such a designation would not automatically address Agra’s civic or environmental concerns.
The Supreme Court’s decision highlights the challenges cities face when attempting to balance urban development with the preservation of historical sites.
Agra is home to several UNESCO-recognized monuments, including the Taj Mahal, but the city itself has yet to achieve the global recognition that the petition sought.
Bench Details:
- Justices: Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih
- Date of Hearing: 13 September 2024
- Court Ruling: Plea dismissed