Shimla’s Historic Ridge: Legacy Tarnished Amid Administrative Lapses

Shimla Jan 03, 2025 Ritanjali Hastir

Shimla’s iconic Ridge, a symbol of its historical and cultural heritage, has become a source of outrage and disappointment following a series of disturbing incidents during the Winter Carnival. Known for its serene charm and landmarks like the Christ Church, the Ridge has been reduced to headlines for all the wrong reasons, raising serious questions about the state’s governance, law enforcement, and its approach to tourism.

The carnival, which resumed on January 2, saw incidents of topless tourists dancing on the Ridge at night. Earlier, another video surfaced showing a young man dancing with a whiskey bottle in broad daylight. These incidents have sparked outrage among locals, questioning the government’s ability to balance tourism promotion with maintaining public decency. These acts, which occurred during the carnival and in the name of merry making, have tarnished the dignity of the Ridge, leaving locals furious and concerned about the lack of order and decorum. The resumption of the Winter Carnival on January 2 saw this act unfold under the watch of key administrative and political figures, leaving many questioning the state’s priorities.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s directive to treat tourists hospitably and avoid harassment appears to have been misinterpreted, inadvertently encouraging misbehavior under the guise of leniency. Critics argue that this laxity has emboldened tourists to create public nuisances, overshadowing the carnival’s intended celebration of culture. The Ridge, which houses a 140-year-old water tank and statues of national icons such as Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, saw its heritage compromised as commercial stalls and event stages obscured these historical symbols, further aggravating the public’s discontent.

The administration’s response, or lack thereof, has further fueled public discontent. SP Sanjeev Gandhi dismissed media inquiries, claiming “partial reporting” while refusing to elaborate on actions taken. No FIRs or visible measures have been reported, leading to accusations of negligence. Recent incidents, including an attack on a local businessman by tourists, have further strained relations between locals and visitors, with residents increasingly feeling like outsiders in their own hometown.

Speaking on the issue, former Deputy Mayor Tikender Panwar expressed deep concern and called the incident unfortunate and disturbing.

The Ridge, once the heart of Shimla’s identity, now serves as a grim reminder of misplaced priorities and administrative failures. While tourism remains vital to the state’s economy, the government’s inability to balance tourist facilitation with maintaining public decency and heritage is glaringly evident. Residents are demanding immediate action to restore the Ridge’s sanctity and ensure a safer, more respectful environment for all. If left unaddressed, the administration risks alienating its citizens and eroding trust, putting Shimla’s cultural and historical legacy at stake.