Graveyard becomes a hangout for goons

Misri Gunj: Owing to negligence of authorities, the Muslim graveyard at Fateh Darwaza at Misri Gunj is slowly turned into a spot of anti-social elements. In the recent days, youth who were habituated to vices were seen congregating at the place. Activities like drinking alcohol, playing cards, smoking cigarettes and even consumption of ganja were observed by locals.“About 2 years back, a murder also took place in the vicinity.

Following a duel over an issue, one of those involved was murdered at the spot. Since then, the graveyard was locked by the Wakf Board officials. With the opening of gates, the place has once again turned into a place of anti-social activities,” said Mohammed Imaduddin Patel, Vice-Chairman, Congress party minority cell in Ramnastpura division in Bahadurpura constituency.Expressing serious concern over the developments, Patel that due to lack of protection, the graves are being desecrated. 

Officials and police should take steps to protect the graveyards from vandalism by the anti-social elements.He also pointed out that the Telangana State Wakf Board should have provided some security at the graveyards. He felt that if police patrol parties keep vigil in the area, their presence would act as a deterrence for anti-social elements. Such vigil must also ensure during the night. 

“In the recent years, in areas in Old City like Phisalbanda, Hazrat Barhane Shah, Talab Katta, Yakutpura, Moghalpura, Misri Gunj, Alaibad, Nampally and several other places, graveyards have become habitats for such elements. Graveyard of any community should be protected from anti-social elements,” he added.  Mohammed Murtuza, a resident, said, “Every alternate day nuisance can be seen close to the graveyard during night hours. Groups of youth sometimes are seen fighting each other.

Several complaints were lodged in the recent days and representations were also made to the committee of graveyard, but to no avail.” “As the road is close to the graveyard, commuters specially girls feel uncomfortable and even unsafe while passing by this road. It has come to our notice that even during day time, some persons were seen disturbing the commuters,” said Shaik Khaja, another resident.