SHIMLA: The High Court of Himachal Pradesh today has directed the Heritage Committee constituted by the Government of Himachal Pradesh, to conduct a joint inspection of the heritage cemetery at Kanlog, Shimla and file a status report with regard to the violation of the interim development plan, in a matter pertaining to alleged destruction of this historical heritage site.
The Committee shall also point out the violations, if any, of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.
The Division Bench comprising Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Virender Singh, passed this order on a petition filed by the local residents alleging therein the destruction of Kanlog Cemetery.
The petitioners have alleged that they are deeply disturbed by the ongoing devastation of this sacred location.
The petitioners have contended that Kanlog Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in the country with its earlier graves dating back to 1850.
This final resting place of both Christians and Parsis has immense national significance and holds the memories of numerous important individuals throughout history.
According to the petitioners the cemetery was intended to be preserved and maintained as a prime heritage and historical site. However, instead of honouring its historical value, the cemetery has fallen victim of unauthorized activities in recent years.
It has been further alleged that the Poster and his trust assumed the responsibility of cemetery’s maintenance but private interests have taken precedence over preservation efforts.
The large scale unauthorized construction has marred the site’s original integrity. It has been alleged that this heritage site’s character has been tampered with by dismantling its historic gates and fences.
These precious features have been replaced with unsightly metal sheets and obstructing visibility.
The Court has directed that no construction shall be raised at the site in question and no car shall be parked at the heritage site.
No person, authority or persons, shall organize any private/religious function(s) in the cemetery till further orders.
The Secretary, District Legal Services Authority, Shimla has been directed to personally visit the site and ensure due compliance of the orders of High Court and submit status report before the next date of hearing i.e. 31.05.2023.
