The issue of government approvals to the World Cultural Festival by the Art of Living Foundation was taken up in Rajya Sabha continuously for the third day. Raising the matter, senior JD(U) MP Sharad Yadav said government agencies did not look at the environment aspect when clearances were given.
“Has he (Sri Sri Ravi Shankar) gone above the system? He was fined for ₹ five crore. Now he says he will not pay the amount,” Yadav said. He was supported by former environment minister Jairam Ramesh. “The Minister for Environment and Forest is right here walking around in the House. So, whether it is the Akshardham Temple, whether it is Commonwealth Games Village, whether it is the Sri Sri Ravi Shankar event, this is a complete ecological destruction on the Yamuna flood plain. I request the Environment and Forest Minister to do his job. He has to protect the environment. He should raise his voice,” Ramesh said pointing at Minister Prakash Javdekar.
Later, CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury said the “sheer brazenness” with which Art Of Living, “patronised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself, is dodging National Green Tribunal orders doesn't augur well for the Indian Republic,” he said. “Will misuse of state machinery continue under direct gaze of Centre?” Yechury asked.
Congress spokesperson PL Punia told reporters that the active participation of the Prime Minister and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the event is gross hypocrisy. “While organizing a 'World Cultural Festival' to showcase Indian culture is a welcome step, one is left to wonder as to why should it be organized by destroying one of the most sacred and vibrant symbol of our cultural heritage- The Yamuna. Why couldn't it have been organized at a rather open place or a stadium?” he asked.