The ambitious Deekshabhoomi Development Project in Nagpur has come under fire from citizens and social groups, who claim that the ongoing construction work is disrupting the sanctity of one of the city’s most revered Buddhist sites. On October 9, 2025, several local organizations and followers of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar voiced objections, arguing that the redevelopment plan—intended to modernize infrastructure and improve visitor facilities—has strayed from its original cultural and spiritual purpose. Critics allege that commercial elements such as food plazas, shopping kiosks, and luxury amenities are being prioritized over preservation of heritage and meditation spaces. Similar concerns were raised in 2022, when earlier proposals to expand Deekshabhoomi’s premises faced protests from Buddhist groups across Maharashtra. That time, authorities revised the plan to include more green areas and a museum on Ambedkar’s life, yet many now believe those promises are being diluted in the current phase of construction. Officials from the Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT) and the Maharashtra government maintain that the project will enhance the site’s accessibility and global recognition, especially for international visitors attending Dhamma Chakra Pravartan Din. However, the renewed wave of public criticism has prompted calls for greater transparency and dialogue with community representatives before further progress is made. #Deekshabhoomi #NagpurDevelopment #AmbedkariteMovement #BuddhistHeritage #CulturalPreservation #NITProject #PublicProtest #NagpurNews #UrbanDevelopment #HeritageConservatio
