ASI probes Yaksha vandalism angle

KOLKATA: The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) on Tuesday inspected the 2nd century Yaksha statue to ascertain the extent of damage. Situated at the entrance to the Bharhut gallery, the statue’s right feet was found damaged last week. The museum authorities are yet to identify what led to the portion being chipped off.
According to sources in the museum, the ASI team could not scan the video footage from CCTV cameras to determine a probable cause of the damage as Indian Museum had not stored it.
Following a preliminary study of the damaged section, ASI did not rule out vandalism. An archeology chemist carried out tests to check if that had indeed happened. ASI regional director (east) P K Mishra, who led the inspection team, refused to divulge the findings. He, however, confirmed that they had checked not just the damaged artifact but other objects in Bharhut gallery as well. “I will compile a report and will submit it to ASI director general,” he said.
The ASI team first photographed the damaged sections and then carried out chemical tests. The team also met all officials and staff concerned with the upkeep of Bharhut gallery. The ASI experts made some
suggestions to preserve the artefacts better.
One of the probable reasons identified for the flaking is iron clamps. These generate oxides of iron that corrode the stones. Such oxides actually accelerate flaking. The ASI team suggested ways to control humidity. They also visited the Gandhar gallery and were appalled to see 1st/2nd century BC Buddhist Votive Stupa. The north and western sides are badly damaged. ASI has suggested that a hole be made at the top of the glass-case for humid air to escape. Moreover, keepers have been advised to put silica gel, a moisture absorbent, and naphthalene in the case.
“If necessary, Indian archeologists can collaborate with some of the best restoration experts of the world to revive it. The vibration during the construction of Park Street flyover accelerated the flaking. Movement of heavy vehicles on Chowringhee also causes vibration. If necessary, the gallery should be shifted from the western side to the eastern side,” an ASI official suggested.
Curiously, instead of focusing on what led to the damage, the museum authority spent its energy to probe how news of the damage was leaked to the media. A letter from the museum director has warned departmental heads of disciplinary action if the source of news is not revealed.