The Hindu : National / West Bengal : Interpol help sought to trace stolen Buddha head

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Sunday, Jan 02, 2005

National

National - West Bengal

Interpol help sought to trace stolen Buddha head

By Our Special Correspondent

KOLKATA, JAN. 1. The Indian Museum authorities have sought the help of Interpol to investigate into the December 29 theft of the fifth century Buddha head from the Museum's archaeological gallery.

"Yes, we have sought Interpol's help to unravel the theft," S.K. Basu, director, Indian Museum, said.

Mr. Basu told The Hindu today that security requirements of the museum had increased over the years because of addition of galleries. A shortage of security staff developed simultaneously.

"We have been corresponding with the Centre on the museum's security aspects. We expect the existing system will be revamped soon."

In a letter to the Archaeological Society of India (ASI), the Museum has urged it to entrust the job of investigation with the Interpol as well as the CBI.

According to the Museum authorities here, the ASI has already forwarded the petition to the CBI which, it is learnt, will shortly apprise the Interpol of the matter.

The Interpol's assistance is necessary as the stolen head may have been smuggled out of the country. The antique is priceless. The city police have not been able to make any headway till now.

The Governor, Gopal Gandhi, also chairman of the museum's Board of Trustees, is believed to have expressed concern at the lack of adequate security.

He had visited the museum the day after the theft was detected and discussed the security aspects with the museum authorities.

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