The graves of Mohammad Maqbool Bhatt and Mohammad Afzal Guru, both executed in terrorism-related cases, are located inside Delhi’s Tihar Jail. A public interest litigation (PIL) has now been filed in the Delhi High Court seeking their removal. The petition was moved by the Vishwa Vedic Sanatan Sangh.

Petitioner's Arguments

The plea claims that the construction of these graves inside prison premises is illegal, unconstitutional, and against public interest. It states that:

• The Prisons Act, 1894, the Delhi Prison Manual, 2018, the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, and the Delhi Master Plan-2021 do not allow religious structures, shrines, or graves inside jails.

• As per prison rules, executed prisoners must be cremated discreetly to prevent glorification.

• The graves have allegedly turned into pilgrimage spots, where people gather and worship, disturbing public order.

Demand for Relocation

The petitioner has urged the court to direct authorities to shift the remains to a secret location, ensuring they cannot be misused for political or ideological purposes.

Next Hearing

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear the matter and decide whether the prison administration should be directed to remove or relocate the graves.