Qutub Shahi Tombs: Telangana High Court directive to State, Aga Khan Trust for Culture

The court was dealing with a PIL that complained inaction of the Aga Khan Trust in conserving and protecting the tombs

Hyderabad: A two-judge bench of the Telangana High Court comprising Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Renuka Yara sought a response from the State government and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) about the conservation of the Qutub Shahi Tombs, a UNESCO-recognised heritage site in Hyderabad.

The bench was dealing with a public interest litigation (PIL) case taken up suo motu based on a letter that complained inaction of the AKTC in conserving and protecting tombs, despite having been allocated Rs 100 crore for the conservation of the tombs.

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The letter raised concerns about removing crucial layers and exposing stones of the Qutub Shahi Tombs, including the tomb of Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah. It further highlighted the deterioration due to mismanagement of the funds and resources.

Seeking termination of the contract with the AKTC, the PIL sought judicial orders to ensure the protection of the world heritage site.

Further directions were also sought to investigate the mismanagement by the AKTC. Issuing notice to the State, AKTC, and concerned authorities, the bench scheduled the further hearing on April 1.