A Tughlaq era tomb converted to a temple? Manish Sisodia orders probe

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NEW DELHI: A 500-year-old tomb believed to be a resting place of an unknown figure from Tughlaq era converted into a temple at Safdarjung Enclave’s Humayunpur village.

The 15th Century heritage structure was painted white and saffron in March, and idols were placed inside it, prompting Deputy CM of Delhi, Manish Sisodia to order an enquiry into the alleged conversion.

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“It is the duty of the state archaeology department to ensure the protection of heritage monuments listed under them and take strict action in case of a lapse,” Sisodia said in his order.

“The reported incident should be handled with zero tolerance by the department as it not only violates heritage related laws but is also an attempt to disturb peace and harmony in the area,” the letter read.

The two saffron-coloured benches bearing the name of BJP councillor from Safdarjung Enclave, Radhika Abrol Phogat were placed in the complex, reported The Indian Express.

“Secretary (ACL) to provide a detailed report to me by tomorrow (Saturday) with details of the incident and action taken by her,” the deputy chief minister also said.

One of the members of the restoration team told Hindustan Times that till 2-3 years ago, the ‘gomti’ (word for small domed structure in local dialect) was used to junk or old furniture and remained locked.

 “It was full of old furniture and other discarded stuff. There was a ‘shivling’ like structure inside. But as per Zafar’s listing, it is a tomb. It was locked and hence the restorers needed police protection as no one could enter a locked premises,” he said.

It was not painted till two months ago, he said.

“Whenever the department tried to take over its possession, residents opposed. The police were informed several times but that did not help also,” he said.