Bughdada residents demand government intervention in resolving graveyard issue

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Feb, 2026) The long-standing dispute over the Bughdada graveyard in Mardan district remains unresolved despite the passage of several years, leading to frequent protests and rising tensions in the area.

According to local representatives on Thursday, residents of Bughdada-3 have expressed frustration over the continued conflict between two groups claiming rights over the graveyard.

On Wednesday, residents of Bughdada-3 staged a protest demonstration and urged the provincial government and the Chief Secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to intervene and resolve the matter without further delay.

Protesters stated that one group claims ownership of the graveyard, while according to Revenue Department records dating back to 1870, the land is classified as "Maqboza islam", meaning it is reserved for burial purposes for Muslims.

The residents said they have been submitting complaints and applications since 2016 to the district administration, police officials and relevant authorities to remove encroachments and settle the dispute, but no effective action has been taken so far.

They further added that during funeral prayers and burial ceremonies, the situation often turns tense, creating unnecessary conflict and distress for grieving families.

The protesters appealed to higher authorities to take immediate notice of the issue and prevent the matter from escalating into a violent confrontation.