DOOMDOOMA, May 16 � Sadiya, situated in the easternmost corner of Assam, is one of the most neglected places in the State.
Sadiya is a place of historic importance. According to mythology, Lord Krishna came to this place which was known as Kundil Nagar to take Princess Rukmini, the daughter of King Bhishmak, to Dwarka. There are many historical sites scattered in Sadiya which still lack proper conservation and scientific study. The Archaeological Department has also done nothing in this regard.
Among these historical sites, the Pratima Garh situated on the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border has been encroached on by antisocial elements. The garh (rampart) covers a huge area of land measuring about 16 bighas. There are three maidams, inside the garh. But, nothing is clearly known about these three maidams. According to the local people, the garh and the maidams date back to the reign of King Bhishmak. But there is no authenticity to it. According to some others, the maidams belonged to some powerful Chutia kings as this part was once ruled over by them.
Antisocial people have dug up the maidams in search of jewels and other valuable objects, besides encroaching on it. But no step has been taken by the administration to save the historical site. The local people and organisations have also remained silent in the matter. If the present state is allowed to continue, no trace of the site will be left, said a few concerned citizens.
