In Hyderabad, while authorities focus on renovating and beautifying the seven Qutub Shahi Tombs, other similar structures outside this area are being neglected and forgotten. In Shaikpet, there is a smaller cluster of three Qutub Shahi-era tombs that are becoming inaccessible due to surrounding concrete structures.
A recent visit by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy to the area has sparked a debate. Locals have expressed concerns about the lack of interest from authorities like the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Wakf Board. These organizations were given responsibility for some of the Qutub Shahi-era properties, but the three tombs near Vinayak Nagar in Shaikpet are now overgrown with vegetation. The entrance to this area is blocked with logs and weeds, and the gates appear broken. The site also includes two mosques, named Paklawada Kuncha, covering an area of 3,270 square yards according to a Gazette notification.
Residents who have lived in the area for a long time blame the Waqf Board for neglecting the Shaikpet structures, leading to their deterioration. Abdul Ghaffar, a Shaikpet resident, stated that locals have tried to restore these structures for years but have been unsuccessful due to the authorities’ inaction. He urged the Waqf Board to inspect all Waqf properties and assess the condition of the land.
Among other neglected structures is a large Qutub Shahi Mosque in Shaikpet, now reduced to a decaying piece of architecture. It has been locked for years by the authorities, despite being used for prayers in the past, as per documents from the former Andhra Pradesh State Wakf Board.
In 1987, locals even requested the formation of a committee to conduct prayers regularly at the mosque. Mohd Habeebuddin, a local activist, expressed hope that the government would restore this mosque, allowing it to serve its original purpose once again.
