Haryana rights panel asks Rohtak DC for report on graveyard wall issue

The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has taken strong action after learning that a graveyard in Dhamar village, Rohtak, does not have a boundary wall. The commission has asked the Rohtak Deputy Commissioner to submit a detailed report on this issue.

The commission acted after receiving a complaint from a local resident. The complaint stated that despite repeated requests and availability of funds, no wall has been built to protect the burial ground.

Legal duty of the gram panchayat

The HHRC pointed out that the failure to build a boundary wall violates the Haryana Panchayati Raj Act, 1994, particularly Section 21(xviii)(3). This section clearly says that it is the duty of the gram panchayat, within available funds, to ensure rural sanitation and maintain cremation and burial grounds.

The commission noted that ignoring this duty shows negligence and a breach of statutory obligations. Such inaction also goes against constitutional rights.

HHRC chairperson Justice Lalit Batra strongly criticized the lack of action, saying it reflects “gross insensitivity and negligence” on the part of the authorities.

He said, “The absence of a boundary wall affects not only the dignity of the deceased but also the sentiments and religious beliefs of the local population. The right to dignity extends beyond death, and such neglect violates human conscience. This issue must be addressed urgently on humanitarian grounds.”

Justice Batra added that an unprotected graveyard is vulnerable to disrespect and encroachment. This can lead to situations where the community cannot perform burial rituals in a dignified manner.

Right to dignity under Article 21

The commission also reminded the authorities that the right to dignity is protected under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. This right does not end with death. Denying basic infrastructure like a boundary wall undermines the community’s ability to perform religious and cultural practices respectfully.

The order stated, “The failure to construct a boundary wall reflects administrative negligence and violates basic human rights and the dignity of the deceased.”

The HHRC expressed concern that despite repeated demands and the availability of funds, no wall has been constructed so far. This delay, according to the panel, is unacceptable and needs an immediate explanation.

The commission said the inaction shows not only a lack of sensitivity but also raises doubts about proper governance at the village level.

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Report sought from officials

The commission has asked the Rohtak Deputy Commissioner, District Development and Panchayat Officer, and Block Development and Panchayat Officer to submit detailed reports. The officials have been told to explain why the wall has not been built and provide a clear timeline for completing the work.

These reports must be submitted before the next hearing scheduled for September 18. The panel expects the officers to present corrective measures to ensure that such neglect does not happen again.

In rural areas, burial grounds are important for maintaining cultural and religious practices. A boundary wall provides basic security, prevents encroachment, and ensures that rituals can be performed with respect. The absence of such protection often leads to disputes and can hurt community sentiments.

By taking strong action, the HHRC has sent a clear message that even after death, individuals are entitled to dignity and respect. Authorities have a legal and moral responsibility to provide minimum facilities at burial grounds.

What happens next

The case will now be reviewed on September 18, when the commission will examine the reports from the concerned officers. If the explanations are not satisfactory, the panel may recommend strict action against those responsible for the delay.

For now, the commission’s order highlights that the right to dignity extends beyond life and that denying basic infrastructure at graveyards is not only a legal violation but also a human rights issue.