Chandigarh, July 16
The Haryana Human Rights Commission, Chandigarh has taken serious note of a complaint filed by a resident of Village Dhamar, District Rohtak, regarding the absence of a boundary wall around the village graveyard. Despite repeated requests and the availability of funds with the Gram Panchayat, no boundary wall has been constructed so far.
Justice LalitBatra, Chairperson of the Commission, observed that such negligence not only undermines the dignity of the deceased but also reflects insensitivity towards the religious sentiments and beliefs of the villagers. He emphasized that the dignity of the dead must be protected by both society and the administration — a responsibility that does not end with death.
In his order, Justice Batra stated clearly that under Section 21(xviii)(3) of the Haryana Panchayati Raj Act, 1994, it is a statutory duty of the Gram Panchayat to maintain and safeguard community assets like cremation and burial grounds. The failure to construct a boundary wall, despite the availability of resources, constitutes a serious administrative lapse and a violation of basic human rights.
Dr.PuneetArora, Protocol, Information & Public Relations Officer of the Haryana Human Rights Commission, informed that considering the urgency of the matter, the Commission has sought detailed reports from the Deputy Commissioner, Rohtak; District Development and Panchayat Officer, Rohtak; and Block Development and Panchayat Officer, Block Rohtak. The officers have been asked to explain the delay in constructing the wall and to provide a timeline for the proposed corrective measures.
The next hearing in the matter has been scheduled for September 18, 2025. Copies of the Commission’s order have been sent to the complainant, the concerned officials, and the Sarpanch of Village Dhamar via email and post for necessary compliance.
