AGRA — Tension gripped parts of Agra after allegations surfaced that several old graves at a historic graveyard were removed overnight and a boundary wall was constructed in an alleged attempt to grab the land.
The incident occurred at Shahi Kabristan on Madiya Katra Road in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Members of the local Muslim community alleged that suspected land mafias used heavy machinery during the night to clear portions of the graveyard and erect a new boundary wall.
Residents said they were shocked upon visiting the site and finding that several old graves had disappeared. “When even a graveyard is not safe, how can ordinary people feel secure?” a local resident said. “This is not just land; it is a sacred place for us.”
According to community members, the work was allegedly carried out using JCB machines under the cover of darkness, without informing nearby residents. As news spread, a large number of people gathered at the site and staged a protest, demanding immediate police action.
A written complaint was submitted to the police, accusing unidentified land grabbers of attempting to take control of the graveyard property. Following the complaint, a joint team of the police and the revenue department reached the spot and conducted an inspection.
An official present at the site said, “Government land and religious places cannot be encroached upon. If any illegal construction has been carried out, it will be removed.” The team reportedly ordered the demolition of the boundary wall found to have been built without authorisation.
Authorities said the matter is being investigated and that an FIR will be registered against those found responsible. Officials added that strict action would follow if the allegations are substantiated.
Some local residents expressed relief after the administration intervened. “We wanted the authorities to act quickly, and they have started the process,” another resident said.
The police have not yet confirmed how many graves were affected or who carried out the construction. The revenue department is examining land records to determine the legal status of the property.
For members of the Muslim community in the area, the issue extends beyond property. Community representatives said they are seeking legal action as well as assurances that such incidents will not recur.
The investigation is ongoing, and further developments are expected in the coming days.
