HC directs state to reply on status of Afzal Khan's tomb

Mumbai, Dec 18 (UNI) The Bombay High Court today directed the state government to file a reply within a week submitting the details of the status of Afzal Khan's tomb at the foot of fort Pratapgadh in Satara district of Maharashtra.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Harjeet Singh Bedi and Justice V M Kanade was hearing a public interest litigation filed by one Varsha Deshpande, who wanted the authorities to ''pass appropriate orders'' for maintenance of communal peace and harmony in view of Shiv Pratap Utsav as this festival creates tension in the area.

According to her lawyer Uday Warunjkar, Hindu fundamentalist organisations in the area were opposed to the structures surrounding the tomb, calling them encroachments. However, the committee looking after them claimed they are legal and built for convenience of devotees.

''This is often the cause of tension and may some day lead to an attempt to demolish the tomb. the PIL seeks that the government makes the tomb's status clear,'' he said.

The tomb, which is a declared ancient monument, should be actually in the possession of government, the lawyer said.

The tomb was earlier looked after by one Hazrat Mohd Afzal Khan's Memorial Society, but the society's registration was cancelled, states the PIL. Later, Afzal Khan Turbat Fund Committee was set up to replace it.

Ms Deshpande also sought to know under which law the committee has been functioning.

The case will come up for further hearing on January 17.

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