Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) had identified archaeological potential of Keezhadi after conducting survey in Vaigai river basin. The site was taken up for excavation for the seasons 2014-15, 2015-16 and 2016-17. Excavations at important sites are done by various agencies including State Archaeology Departments and academic institutions. Currently, the Keezhadi excavation is being conducted by the State Archaeology Department of Tamil Nadu.

Order dated 29^th February 2024 by the Honorable Madurai Bench of Madras High Court had directed towards submission of the report. The report on the excavation conducted during 2014-15 and 2015-16 has already been submitted and vetted by eminent scholars as per set practice.

The lead Archaeologist submits a report of the excavation, which is vetted by the experts. After duly verifying and incorporating the conclusions of experts in concurrence with the lead excavation Archaeologist, ASI releases an official report. Keezhadi excavation has been conducted under the aegis of ASI and a report of lead Archaeologist was reviewed. The comments of experts have also been shared with the lead Archaeologist.

ASI is fully committed to follow the law and duely worldwide accepted scientific process and practice for releasing the accurate finding based on the excavation at Keezhadi.

This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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Sunil Kumar Tiwari

pibculture[at]gmail[dot]com

(Release ID: 2147792)