New Delhi, February 13: Senior BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Ghulam Ali Khatana met Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw at his Parliament office to raise concerns regarding the proposed railway alignment that could impact the Martyr Maqbool Sherwani Memorial Hall and adjoining Sherwani Colony.
During the meeting, Khatana informed the Minister that one of the three alignment options under consideration is likely to affect the Memorial Hall, dedicated to martyr Maqbool Sherwani, which he described as a site of immense historical and national importance symbolizing sacrifice and patriotism.
The MP said he had earlier taken up the issue with railway and district authorities and had received several deputations from local residents seeking protection of the colony and the memorial. He expressed concern that all stakeholders had not been adequately consulted in the planning process.
Responding to the concerns, the Union Minister assured that the Government of India respects the sacrifices of martyr Maqbool Sherwani and would ensure protection of the Memorial Hall as a national symbol. He stated that the railway survey would be reviewed after consultations with all stakeholders and after examining alternative alignment options.
Khatana thanked the Minister for giving a patient hearing and for taking cognizance of the matter in the broader public and national interest.
