In India’s capital city, Muslims in East Delhi’s Yamunapar locality are facing humiliation even after death due to the absence of proper burial grounds, forcing families to stage protests and prepare for legal action. The entire Muslim population in the area has been left with just one dilapidated cemetery, which turns into a swamp during the monsoon, making funeral prayers and burials nearly impossible.

“It is a shame that in Delhi, even after 78 years of Independence, Muslims cannot bury their loved ones with dignity,” said a local resident. Despite repeated pleas over decades, authorities have failed to allocate additional land for burials. The crisis forced residents, led by Congress district president Kamal Gazi, to hold a peaceful protest in Welcome area where Hindus also joined Muslims, declaring the issue a matter of basic humanity. 

“Denying burial space is denying dignity in death,” said advocate Saima Parveen, who is preparing to move the court against the government’s apathy. Residents said the situation exposes the communal bias of Indian rulers who boast of “world-class development” while denying minorities their fundamental rights.  Protesters warned they will continue their struggle on the streets and in the courts until justice is delivered.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)