Residents plan non-political protests to secure the long-delayed burial ground
Team Clarion
MUMBAI – The demand for a graveyard in the Vikhroli suburb of the country’s financial capital has reached a critical point as locals, under the banner of the proposed Vikhroli Graveyard Committee, have intensified their efforts to secure the long-delayed burial ground. In a significant move, the committee has announced an indefinite hunger strike starting from August 15, while also launching a signature campaign in response to police restrictions.
The issue of securing land for a cemetery in Vikhroli has been a long-standing concern for the local Muslim community. After numerous meetings, protests, and appeals, the Vikhroli Graveyard Committee has decided to take stronger action. Women, alongside men, are actively participating in this campaign, demonstrating the widespread and unified support for this cause.
At a meeting on Sunday, the committee discussed the strategy for the upcoming hunger strike. The community leaders also informed various authorities, including the ACP, DCP, Commissioner, DGP, and chief minister, of their plans and emphasised that the campaign would remain non-political. The committee has explicitly stated that political rhetoric, flags, or symbols will be avoided to maintain the focus on the community’s legitimate demand.
During a meeting with Senior Inspector Sudhir Hardekar of Vikhroli Police Station, the delegation informed him about the planned hunger strike. Although the police accepted the notification, they later issued a notice citing Section 144 and Bharatiya Nagarak Suraksha Sanhita 168, which restricts public gatherings in crowded areas. The notice explicitly stated that an indefinite hunger strike in the market area, where there is heavy traffic and congestion, would not be permitted. The police warned that any violation of this order could lead to strict legal action, and the notice would be used as evidence in court.
In light of this development, the committee decided to postpone the hunger strike temporarily, emphasising that it was not cancelled but put off pending further legal consultation. Meanwhile, the community will proceed with a signature campaign starting August 15 to continue building momentum for their cause.
The Sunday meeting saw significant participation from all sections. It was unanimously decided to continue the campaign through democratic means. The signature campaign will serve as a peaceful yet powerful tool to keep the pressure on the authorities.
