Why in the news?

The All Tai Ahom Students’ Union (ATASU) has submitted a memorandum to the district administration of Sivasagar, raising alarm over alleged illegal earth excavation at Jerenga Pathar and wildlife crimes at Pahu Garh.

Why Jerenga Pathar matters

• Jerenga Pathar is not merely a physical landscape; it is a symbol of Assamese sacrifice, courage, and identity.
• It is closely associated with Joymoti Konwari, revered for her resistance and martyrdom during the Ahom period.
  • In the 17th century, Joymoti Konwari (wife of Prince Gadapani) was tied to a thorny plant and tortured to death at this very spot for 14 days. 
  • She refused to reveal her husband’s whereabouts to the tyrannical ‘Lora Raja’ (Sulikphaa)
• The site holds heritage value as well as ecological importance, making it vulnerable to both cultural loss and environmental degradation.
  

Pahu Garh: Asia’s First Natural Zoo

• Located to the west of Jerenga Pathar, Pahu Garh is an engineering and ecological marvel built by Swargadeo Rudra Singha (1696–1714).
• It was designed as an open-habitat zoo—centuries before the modern concept of “safari parks” existed. 
  • Animals were kept in enclosures created by earthen ramparts (Garhs) and water channels.
• Today, it functions as a critical wetland ecosystem and a sanctuary for winter migratory birds like the Bar-headed Goose and Siberian Pelican.

Key concerns raised by ATASU

• Illegal soil extraction allegedly carried out by land mafias over a prolonged period.
• Environmental damage, including land degradation and safety risks.
• Threat to heritage conservation, undermining the sanctity of a nationally important historical site.
• Wildlife crimes at the nearby Pahu Garh area, including hunting of migratory birds and illegal fishing.

Major demands in the memorandum

• Immediate stoppage of illegal earth excavation at Jerenga Pathar.
• Comprehensive investigation and strict legal action against those involved, including officials if found complicit.
• Permanent surveillance and monitoring to protect the heritage site.
• Strengthening administrative mechanisms to prevent recurrence.
• Imposition of Section 144 at Pahu Garh to stop destruction of migratory birds and aquatic life.

Legal and governance angle 

• Illegal excavation may violate:
  • Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958
  • Environment Protection Act, 1986
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (in case of hunting and fishing)
• Highlights the role of civil society and student organisations in heritage and environmental protection.

Exam Hook – Prelims (Statement MCQ)

Q. With reference to Jerenga Pathar, consider the following statements:

1. It is associated with Joymoti Konwari of Ahom history.
2. Illegal earth excavation at heritage sites can attract provisions of both environmental and cultural protection laws.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (c)

One-line wrap:
Jerenga Pathar’s threat highlights the urgent need to balance heritage protection, environmental law, and local governance.

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