Neglected Nalchiti Municipal Cemetery Sparks Public Anger

Local residents have expressed deep resentment over the prolonged neglect of the Mallikpur Municipal Cemetery under Nalchiti Municipality in Jhalakathi district. Despite its immense social and religious significance, locals allege that a total lack of maintenance and supervision has left the burial ground in a dilapidated state.

A primary grievance is the complete absence of a permanent boundary or retaining wall. Without a secure perimeter, stray animals freely roam the grounds, desecrating graves. Residents also warned that the undefined boundaries leave the valuable public land highly vulnerable to illegal encroachment.

A physical inspection of the graveyard reveals a desolate scene. Vast areas are overrun by dense weeds and wild thickets, completely burying older graves. Local businessman Abul Kalam Azad noted that families frequently struggle to even locate the resting places of their loved ones due to the thick overgrowth. Furthermore, the absence of a proper drainage system causes severe waterlogging during the monsoon season, creating unsanitary conditions for visitors.

Security is another growing concern. Although a gate exists at the main entrance, the lack of guards or lighting leaves the grounds exposed to anti-social activities, theft, and misuse after dark. Locals blame the situation on a shortage of municipal manpower and a lack of responsible oversight.

While Nalchiti Municipality continues other urban development projects, the community feels this sacred site has been entirely abandoned. Concerned citizens are demanding immediate intervention from the municipal authorities.

They are calling for the swift construction of a boundary wall, the appointment of permanent cleaning staff, proper night lighting, and the formation of a joint monitoring committee comprising public representatives, religious leaders, and local dignitaries to restore dignity to the cemetery.