Kathmandu. Allegations of ‘encroachment of heritage’, ‘encroachment of Guthi’s land’ and ‘demolition of historic pond’ have been repeated for years at Chha ya Complex in Thamel. However, the production team has argued that many of these claims are based on emotional commentary rather than facts.

According to the construction side, the history related to Bhagwan Bahal Guthi has not been denied. Although it is accepted that there was a pond in the area at one time and the ownership of the land belonging to Guthi was accepted from the Rana era, theownership of the land was finalized through a long legal process through the court, Guthi Sansthan and the Land Revenue Office, they claimed.

According to them, in 2008, the current investors had legally purchased the land in 2007 with land ownership certificates.After that, the project was constructed only after obtaining necessary government approval. Another claim of the construction party is related to the local community.

According to them, there has never been such a widespread local protest as seen on social media. According to them, the office-bearers of Bhagawan Bahal Guthi and the local community have already issued a letter of intent stating that they have no dispute with the Chhaya Complex.

According to businessmen, even though heritage conservation is necessary, it is not appropriate to keep the projects made legally in controversy by running an emotional campaign in the name of heritage. They complain that psychological pressure has been created on the businessmen due to the presence of emotions rather than facts on social media.

They say, “There is a need to strike a balance between heritage conservation and development.” But that should not be done through mob pressure or social media commentary, but on the basis of law, evidence and official decisions of the state. ’

Entrepreneurs say that the shadow complex dispute is not just a building issue but a national debate on how to maintain a balance between development, heritage conservation, rule of law and investment in Nepal.