A grave problem! Burial grounds in city turn gambling dens by night

Hyderabad: The graveyards in the city have turned into a hub of anti-social elements. The residents said that some individuals were consuming ganja and were involved in playing cards, drinking alcohol inside graveyards during late-night hours. The residents urged the authorities to increase patrolling, install proper lighting and strict action against the individuals.

The growing misuse of graveyards across several parts of the city has become a matter of serious concern for residents, raising questions about public safety, civic responsibility, and respect for the deceased. These spaces that are meant to be places of dignity are increasingly being turned into hubs of anti-social activities.

Residents have reported that graveyards in areas such as Phisalbanda, Talab Katta, Yakutpura, Rein Bazar, Moghalpura, Misri Gunj, Alibad, Nampally, Erragadda, Borabanda, Amberpet and Tolichowki are being openly misused by individuals engaging in activities like alcohol consumption, gambling, smoking cigarettes, and even the use of ganja.

Mohammed Ahmed, a resident of Misri Gunj, said that the graveyard is not merely an open space—it is a place of deep emotional, cultural, and religious significance. It represents the final resting place of loved ones and holds immense value for families and communities. “When such spaces are neglected and allowed to deteriorate into centres of nuisance, it reflects a failure in maintaining basic civic order.”

Ahmed said, “Whether it is a Muslim graveyard or a burial ground of any other community, the problem remains the same. Every graveyard in the city deserves equal respect and must be safeguarded against misuse and unlawful activities.”

Mohammed Murtuza, a resident, expressed frustration, “On almost every alternate night, disturbances occur near the graveyard. Groups gather, consume alcohol, and often get into fights. We have repeatedly lodged complaints with both the police and the graveyard committees, but there has been no response.”

Srikanth, a resident of Gowlipura, highlighted, “The road runs right beside the graveyard, and many residents use it daily. Women and young girls feel unsafe even during the daytime. People loiter, create disturbances, and sometimes engage in aggressive behaviour. This is not just a nuisance—it is a threat to public safety.”

On Saturday night, following the complaints from the locals some individuals were consuming ganja inside a Kabristan during late-night hours in Rein Bazar, the Rein Bazar police teams conducted a night-time inspection of the graveyard and nearby areas.

Despite not finding anyone during the inspection, police have issued a strict warning that such activities will not be tolerated.