Patna : The Bihar government has announced plans to construct fencing around 300 graveyards and build boundary walls for 54 temples by March 31, 2026. The initiative, led by the Home Department, follows directives from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and aims to prevent encroachment and maintain security at these religious sites.
The selection of graveyards and temples has been made based on a priority list compiled by district-level committees, each chaired by the respective District Magistrate. The Planning and Development Department has drawn up a comprehensive action plan for the project, which will be executed within the next financial year.
According to official data, Bihar has identified 9,273 graveyards for fencing under a broader scheme, of which 8,808 have already been secured. Similarly, under the Bihar Mandir Boundary Wall Construction Scheme, boundary walls have been built around 518 temples, with the remaining 54 temples set to be completed under this latest phase.
The move comes in response to recurring tensions and land disputes over graveyards in various districts, which have sometimes led to violent clashes. Officials believe that fencing will help curb encroachments and maintain communal harmony. Likewise, securing temples is seen as a measure to prevent thefts and illegal occupation of temple land.
The Bihar government has emphasised that all construction work will be completed within the stipulated timeline to ensure the safety and integrity of these religious sites.
