Construction work of ‘Asia’s Largest Ram Statue’ in Gaibandha suspended

Authorities behind a project to build Asia’s largest statue of Lord Ram in Gaibandha's Palashbari upazila have announced a temporary suspension of construction work following growing tensions over the project's funding sources and transparency.

The decision was announced at a press conference held at the premises of the Sri Sri Radha and Kali Temple in Madhya Ramchandrapur village on Thursday (June 11).

Reading out a written statement, temple committee adviser Shyamol Kumar Mahanta said the construction had been halted to help maintain law and order and prevent further unrest in the area.

Temple officials said the multi-crore taka project was undertaken as part of a broader temple development initiative. However, questions surrounding the source of funding and overall transparency of the project sparked widespread debate on social media and among local residents.

The controversy subsequently triggered tensions involving local political groups and members of the public, prompting concerns over the area's law and order situation.

In response, the temple committee decided to suspend construction activities until further notice.

Committee leaders said they are willing to engage in discussions with all stakeholders to address concerns and clear up misunderstandings surrounding the project.

They also pledged to ensure greater transparency and work in coordination with local authorities before taking any future steps.

The announcement has drawn mixed reactions in the locality. While some residents welcomed the move as a necessary step to ease tensions, others expressed concern about the future of the ambitious project.

Although the situation remains calm at present, local authorities have reportedly increased monitoring in the area to prevent any further escalation.