Aurangabad: Shamshir Nagar (Aurangabad).
Anti-social elements have severely damaged the tomb of historical figure Shamshir Khan in Shamshir Nagar village, located in the Dawood Nagar block of Aurangabad district. This site is situated in the ancestral homeland of renowned poet Nashad Aurangabadi, who has been conveying messages of love, brotherhood, and national unity through his poetry. According to information, a few miscreants and anti-social elements vandalized the two graves - Shamshir Khan and his wife Begum - in the tomb last night, causing significant damage. It appears that the intention of these elements was to completely erase this historical monument.

Regrettably, this tomb is under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), yet it is being grossly neglected. Despite being located on the main road from Patna to Aurangabad and only about 95 kilometers from the capital Patna, adequate attention is not being paid to the protection of this historical site. Local residents claim that anti-social elements have turned this site into a hub for alcohol consumption, where filth is spread daily. In this regard, the police have been informed earlier, but no effective action has been taken. If the police conduct patrols at least once during the day and once in the evening, it can not only improve the environment but also prevent any criminal planning by drunkards and anti-social elements.

Information about the incident has been provided to the local Sarpanch, Mukhiya, regional MLA, BDO Dawood Nagar, and the police through 112. The villagers have also prepared a video after the incident, which clearly shows that both graves were damaged and attempts were made to destroy them. A peon has been appointed by the Archaeological Department for the maintenance of the tomb, but according to local residents, he is neglecting his duties and is only interested in receiving his salary. Furthermore, the allocated funds for the maintenance of the tomb are limited to the department's files, and in reality, not even a monthly expenditure of Rs 100 is incurred.

Through this newspaper, we strongly demand that the Government of Bihar and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) take concrete steps for the immediate repair, constant surveillance, and effective protection of this historical heritage, so that such vandalism and destruction can be prevented in the future. Additionally, the safety of local residents should also be ensured. The local people have also appealed to the honorable minister to intervene immediately and issue strict instructions to the concerned authorities, otherwise, there is a fear that anti-social elements may become more emboldened.

We are also sending some pictures of the incident, taken a few days before and after the incident, as well as a picture of Nashad Aurangabadi visiting his hometown and the tomb. If possible, please publish all three images.