Manipur students ‘denied’ entry into Taj Mahal, asked for proof of nationality: report
The students lodged a written complaint and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has ordered an inquiry into the matter.
In yet another case of discrimination against people from the North-East, a group of students from a university in Manipur were allegedly stopped from entering the Taj Mahal by CISF personnel, reported Indian Express.
The incident took place on Sunday at around 3:30 pm. The students of the Central Agricultural University in Imphal had gone to visit the monument as part of an all-India educational tour and were asked to produce proof of their nationality.
However, even after producing their ID cards and a letter for the tour, the CISF personnel did not allow them to enter the monument. Only a few student, who had Aadhaar cards, were allowed in and the remaining students were given entry following police intervention.
Students also lodged a written complaint with Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials, alleging discrimination.
The report said that the students were stopped from entering the Taj Mahal because they seemed like foreigners who were trying to pass off as Indians to get cheaper tickets.
Tickets issued to foreign tourists (barring those from SAARC and BIMSTEC countries) to visit the monument cost Rs 1,000 each. However, Indians are charged Rs 40 per ticket.
ASI official has ordered an inquiry into the matter.