LAKKUNDI/GADAG: The developments after a family in Lakkundi found a stash of gold ornaments buried under the earth on their land took a new twist on Monday. The family who earlier staked claim on the gold now says they do not want it. State Archaeological Survey of India Director Dr R Shejeshwar visited Lakkundi on Monday and confirmed that the find is a treasure.
However, the change of mind reportedly took place after some seniors of the village told the Ritti family that taking possession of a treasure is a sin.
Several villagers told the family that their land where the treasure was found is located behind the Lakshmi temple, hence, they should donate the land to the temple. Heeding this, the family has now requested the district administration to help them get another house.
Iraanna Bandi, a septuagenarian, said, “We have seen many people who had taken such treasures suffering losses. Call it superstition, karma or whatever, but we have seen some families who suffered after taking gold dug up from their lands. Hence, we have suggested to the Ritti family to ask the government for help in getting a new house, and we will also help them.”
Both district in-charge minister HK Patil and state ASI Director Dr R Shejeshwar said the gold found by the family was a treasure.
They said they respect the honesty of the family and the latter will be given suitable reward according to the law.
On Sunday, an ASI official from Dharwad said that the golden ornaments cannot be classified as a treasure but changed his statement on Monday, saying that he was confused.
Patil said any valuable asset found under the earth is a treasure, and it is government property.
Former minister and Lakkundi MLA CC Patil, who visited the village on Monday, said, “ASI officials should not give confusing statements. I congratulate the Ritti family for their honesty in handing over the gold to the district administration.”
Gadag DC CN Sridhar said, “The family has shown their honesty and we will act according to the law.”