Former Union Minister and Member of Parliament Manish Tewari has raised concerns over the deteriorating condition of the Government Museum and Art Gallery in Sector 10, Chandigarh, in a letter to Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria.
Tewari said he visited the museum on the afternoon of May 30 and was disappointed by its poor upkeep. He noted that several artefacts had been covered with plastic sheets, reportedly to protect them from ongoing roof renovation work. He said this not only reflected poor aesthetic judgment but also created a negative impression on visitors. If renovation work is under way, he suggested, the affected section of the museum should be closed instead of covering artefacts with plastic.
The MP also pointed out that several display panels were completely bare, with no paintings, photographs, murals or other exhibits on display. Such empty spaces, he said, undermine the very purpose of visiting a museum and leave visitors with a poor impression.
Highlighting additional concerns, Tewari said water was dripping onto the floor due to roof leakages, some walls were damp, and the museum lacked proper air conditioning. Instead, table fans had been placed at various locations to circulate air and provide some relief to visitors and staff. Besides appearing unprofessional, he noted, such conditions could adversely affect the preservation of artworks, which require controlled temperatures.
Tewari said the three museums housed within the complex — the Art Gallery, the Museum of the Evolution of Chandigarh, and the Museum of Natural History — occupy a vast space that could be better utilised and developed into a vibrant artistic and cultural hub.
“I would strongly urge that the Chandigarh Administration prepare a proper, holistic and comprehensive plan for the development or redevelopment of this entire space,” he said.
The MP added that he had been informed that two Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), worth approximately Rs 30 crore and Rs 34 crore respectively, were currently under consideration by the Chandigarh Administration. One proposal is expected to be sent to the Ministry of Culture, while the other is to be funded by the Administration.
He stressed the need for a broader vision for the museum complex, saying a comprehensive redevelopment plan should be prepared to maximise its potential.
Tewari further suggested that at least Rs 100 crore be sought from the Government of India through supplementary demands for grants, specifically for the development of the museum. He said the institution houses several valuable artworks and artefacts that appear to be in a state of neglect.
He also called for the appointment of a professional curator to ensure the three museums function as a cohesive and harmonious entity, rather than as separate institutions with disconnected themes.
