Date:10/03/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/03/10/stories/2007031018060700.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

BJP demands archaeologists' view on Ramar Bridge

Special Correspondent

CHENNAI: The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday demanded that archaeologists be consulted on the status of the Ramar Bridge in the Palk Strait.

L. Ganesan, president of the party State unit, told reporters that the Centre should protect the bridge. It should not destroy "the country's heritage," by allowing work on the Sethusamudram canal project in its present alignment.

The BJP planned to organise `padayatras' to Rameswaram either by the month-end or early April.

Mr. Ganesan said the party would organise intensive campaign on the issue of rising prices of essential commodities by distributing pamphlets in every panchayat from the middle of this month to the end of April.

Human chain organised

He participated in a human chain programme organised by the women's wing of the party to highlight the issue of rising prices.

Mr. Ganesan said the Congress and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, major constituents of the United Progressive Alliance Government, should take steps for implementing 33 per cent reservation for women instead of issuing statements.