KATHMANDU: Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Hit Bahadur Tamang, emphasized that Pashupati area holds immense sanctity for followers of the Sanatan religion worldwide and should not be politicized.

Speaking at the 38th-anniversary program of the Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT), Minister Tamang expressed concern over recent attempts to inject politics into the religious space.

In his address, Minister Tamang underscored the non-political nature of the Pashupati area, stating that it should solely serve spiritual purposes.

He cautioned against using the PADT as a platform to further political agendas and vowed to prevent such occurrences in the future.

Minister Tamang stressed that Pashupati, listed as a World Heritage site, is a vital hub of oriental philosophy and culture, playing a pivotal role in showcasing Nepal to the world.

Highlighting the importance of fostering a serene and spiritual atmosphere in the Pashupati region, Minister Tamang emphasized the need to cater to religious tourists, particularly millions of Hindu pilgrims from India and beyond.

He emphasized that enhancing the area’s spiritual ambiance would significantly contribute to the country’s economic development and progress.

Similarly, Dr. Milan Kumar Thapa, the PADT member secretary, reiterated his commitment to the welfare of Lord Pashupatinath and the PADT. Dr. Thapa pledged to uphold the tradition of preserving the trust’s revenue for its intended religious purposes and denounced any attempts to misuse it for personal gain.

Addressing past challenges and oppositions faced by the PADT, Dr. Thapa affirmed his dedication to ensuring the trust’s integrity and development.

He asserted that any attempts to hinder the progress of Pashupati would not deter his resolve to uphold righteousness and serve the sacred site faithfully.