CEL seeks audit, inquiry into sanitation, finances at Baba Reshi shrine

Srinagar, Jul 15: A day after sanitation and environmental concerns at Baba Reshi shrine were reported, the Centre for Environmental Law (CEL) has sought an independent inquiry into the shrine administration’s functioning, including an audit of funds utilised for sanitation and environmental management.
Amicus Curiae and Chief Executive Director of CEL, Advocate Nadeem Qadri, in a detailed representation submitted to the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, alleged violations of environmental laws, poor waste management practices and possible irregularities in the utilisation of funds meant for maintenance and cleanliness of the shrine.
The representation cited alleged non-compliance with the directions of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh regarding scientific management of municipal solid waste, besides provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Non-Biodegradable Material (Management, Handling and Disposal) Act, 2007, Solid Waste Management Rules, Plastic Waste Management Rules and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
CEL Director Qadri alleged that the shrine premises have witnessed issues related to the accumulation of solid waste, improper litter disposal, inadequate sanitation infrastructure, poor plastic waste management and alleged discharge of untreated sewage and wastewater into nearby water bodies.
The representation stated that such conditions pose risks to public health and the environment while affecting the religious and tourism importance of the Babareshi shrine.
Seeking intervention from the Waqf Board, the CEL urged authorities to initiate an inquiry into the allegations and take necessary action against those found responsible. It also sought the suspension of the shrine administrator or, if warranted, disciplinary proceedings, pending the outcome of the inquiry.
The organisation called for the restoration of scientific waste management systems, improved sanitation facilities, proper sewage treatment measures, and the preparation of a comprehensive environmental management plan for the shrine.
Qadri sought the constitution of a high-level inquiry committee comprising representatives from the district administration, Pollution Control Committee, Forest Department, Forest Protection Force, Rural Sanitation authorities, Waqf Board’s Audit Department and other concerned agencies.
The committee, as sought in the representation, should examine the utilisation of funds sanctioned for sanitation and environmental protection, verify the execution of works, assess compliance with environmental laws and recommend appropriate action wherever required. (KNO)