'Protected' monuments in this ancient city are in a dilapidated state, owing to their negligence by the authorities concerned. The historic Ram Bagh, which was got constructed by the legendary Maharaja Ranjit Singh on the pattern of Shalimar Bagh in Lahore, is in a pitiable condition. The protected monuments in the city include the Summer Palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Service Club, a bathing tank, reading room, four watch towers, and Baran Dari. The total area is 728 kanals, three marlas. 

Interestingly, the Director, Cultural Affairs, and the Museum Department, in a communication to the Deputy Commissioner, Amritsar, dated July 8, 1999, had urged handing over charge of buildings situated in Ram Bagh after its declaration as protected monument.

The letter reads: 'You are well aware that the whole of Ram Bagh has been declared protected as per the Government of Punjab notification dated October 8, 1997. This garden is to be developed as per the rules of the department.'

It was stated that no activity was to be allowed at Ram Bagh, including marriage parties and political rallies. It was also decided that clubs functioning in the garden shall be closed and shifted elsewhere, keeping in view the heritage value of the site.

A copy of the letter was sent to the Municipal Corporation for ensuring eviction of clubs from the historic building.
President of the Amritsar Vikas Manch Charnjit Singh Gumtala said it was shocking that even after Independence, district administration and other authorities concerned had failed to ensure the eviction of clubs, despite the site having been declared protected by the state government.

He said as per the resolutions passed by the corporation, the lease period of the clubs had already expired. The lease of Amritsar Club had expired on October 30, 1988, and Lambsdon Club on October 31, 1989.