It is strictly regulated.
Metal detecting in public parks in India is governed by the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972, and state-specific heritage preservation laws. While not outright banned, unauthorized metal detecting is prohibited without prior approval from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) or state heritage boards. Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize stricter penalties for violations, including fines up to ₹10 lakh and potential imprisonment under Section 28 of the Act. Local municipal bodies may impose additional restrictions, particularly in protected or ecologically sensitive zones.
Key Regulations for Metal Detecting in Public Parks in India
- Heritage Protection: Any activity involving metal detecting in public parks falls under the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972. Unauthorized removal or disturbance of artifacts is illegal, with ASI approval mandatory for historical or cultural sites.
- State-Specific Bylaws: Municipal corporations and state heritage departments (e.g., Maharashtra’s Directorate of Archaeology) enforce supplementary rules. For instance, parks in Mumbai or Delhi require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from local authorities.
- Environmental and Archaeological Zones: Parks designated as protected archaeological sites (e.g., Qutub Minar complex) or eco-sensitive areas (e.g., Western Ghats) prohibit metal detecting entirely. Violations trigger enforcement under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, or state heritage statutes.