As Muslims remain steadfast in their demand for a dignified resting place for their departed loved ones, they have called on authorities to address their longstanding plea forthwith.
Team Clarion
MUMBAI — The Muslim community in Vikhroli, a sprawling suburb of Mumbai located on the northeastern side of the city, continues to grapple with the absence of a cemetery in the locality, despite recent court orders.
For over 40 years, the Muslim residents of the area have tirelessly been advocating for a cemetery in the Dukhar Wali area. Despite sustained efforts, including multiple meetings with Chief Minister Eknath Sambhaji Shinde and engagements with Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) officers, the community’s plea for a burial ground remains unmet. The recent court decision ordering the BMC to allocate space has not alleviated the concerns of the Muslim residents.
A PIL, filed eight years ago, compelled the court to instruct the BMC to specify the location for the cemetery. However, the affidavit filed by BMC last week cited unavailability of space, directing the community to a new site in Ghatkopar. This move has caused frustration among Vikhroli’s Muslims who are raising questions over the sincerity of the authorities in addressing their genuine needs.
Similar struggles are observed in Majur Marg, where an allocated space and issuance of tenders six months ago have yet to see progress. Allegations of deliberate confusion and a lack of interest from local representatives and biased officers persist, leaving the Muslim community’s longstanding demand for a cemetery on hold.
Haroon Rasheed Qureshi, a community representative, expressed disappointment over the BMC’s affidavit, questioning whether the proposed solution in Ghatkopar truly addresses the Muslim community’s burial needs or if it is an attempt to evade responsibility.
Wajid Qureshi, President of Brothers Foundation, revealed that despite paperwork indicating progress, no work order has been issued for the allotted land in Kaha Majur Marg since May 15, 2023. The delay continues to pose challenges for the Muslims, compelling them to travel long distances for burials.
Anwar Shaikh, Joint Secretary of Mumbai Pradesh AIMIM, criticised the BMC’s suggestion to bury the dead in Ghatkopar, emphasising the Muslim community’s right to a cemetery in Vikhroli itself. He pledged to present documentary evidence showcasing misrepresentation on the graveyard issue, vowing to continue the fight with full force.
As Vikhroli’s Muslims remain steadfast in their demand for a dignified resting place for their departed loved ones, they have called on authorities to address their longstanding plea forthwith.
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Photo used for illustrative purposes only.
