Sri Vijaya Puram, June 3: Hindu Rashtra Shakti (HRS), Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has submitted a representation to the Lieutenant Governor, Member of Parliament, Chief Secretary, and the Assistant Secretary (AR Wing), raising objections to what it described as repeated interference with Hindu graveyards in South Andaman and demanding immediate administrative intervention.
In the representation, signed by State Vice President Rajesh Majumdar, the organization alleged that a parcel of land used as a Hindu graveyard in the Nayagaon area was recently targeted for development as a playground by the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council. According to the letter, heavy earthmoving machinery was reportedly deployed at the site before local residents and social workers objected, leading to the work being halted.
The organization claimed that the proposed development had caused concern among members of the Hindu community, who regard the site as a sacred burial ground. HRS described the incident as an affront to religious sentiments and called for the preservation of the site’s sanctity.
The representation further alleged that this was not an isolated incident. The organization claimed that another Hindu graveyard located along the seashore had earlier been occupied for commercial purposes and that shops and a bar had subsequently been constructed on the land. According to HRS, objections had previously been raised by social organizations, elected representatives, and local residents regarding the alleged use of the site.
In support of its demands, the organization cited various constitutional provisions and judicial observations relating to religious freedom, dignity in death, and protection of burial grounds. The representation referred to Articles 21 and 25 of the Constitution, arguing that the right to perform last rites and maintain burial sites forms part of the broader framework of religious freedom and dignity.
The memorandum also referred to Article 300A concerning property rights and asserted that graveyard land cannot be repurposed without following due legal procedures. It additionally cited constitutional duties relating to the preservation of cultural and religious heritage.
HRS further referenced court rulings and statements made by national leaders regarding the protection of religious and heritage sites. The organization argued that the administration has an obligation to safeguard places of religious significance and prevent their encroachment or alteration.
Among its key demands, the organization called for an immediate and permanent halt to any developmental activity at the Nayagaon graveyard site. It also sought restoration of the land to its original condition and protection from future interference.
The group further demanded a high-level inquiry into both the Nayagaon incident and the earlier alleged occupation of the seashore graveyard. It requested that the findings of such an inquiry be made public.
In addition, HRS urged the administration to examine the legality of the structures allegedly constructed on the seashore burial ground and sought restoration of the land if violations are established.
The representation also called for the issuance of directions to the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council prohibiting any future encroachment or developmental activity on religious burial grounds. The organization requested disciplinary action against officials found responsible for approving or executing the alleged activities.
The issue is likely to draw attention in the coming days as community organizations seek clarity on the status of the land in question and the administration’s proposed course of action.
