Aurangabad: A major question has once again been raised over the safety of historical monuments after vandalism was reported at a 324-year-old Mughal-era mausoleum in Bihar’s Aurangabad district. Unknown miscreants allegedly damaged and dug around graves inside the protected monument located in Shamsher Nagar village under the Daudnagar police station limits.
The mausoleum is believed to be associated with Mughal-era subedar Shamsher Khan and is a nationally protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Following the incident, police registered an FIR against unidentified persons and the district administration ordered a detailed investigation. The incident has triggered anger among local residents and history enthusiasts, who have questioned the security arrangements at heritage sites.
Guards spotted damage during routine duty
The Mughal-era mausoleum, situated on the outskirts of Shamsher Nagar village, has been under ASI protection for years and has two security guards deployed on duty. On Wednesday, while conducting routine checks, the guards noticed unusual activity inside the structure.
Upon inspection, they found disturbed soil and visible signs of digging around the graves inside the mausoleum. The guards immediately informed the Daudnagar police, following which a police team reached the spot and cordoned off the premises. Preliminary investigation confirmed that the damage was deliberate and not caused by natural wear or accidental factors.
Three graves damaged inside the mausoleum
According to police and ASI sources, there are three prominent graves inside the mausoleum. One is believed to belong to Mughal subedar Shamsher Khan, the second to his wife, and the third to another unidentified individual. All three graves showed signs of tampering and excavation.
Investigators suspect that the act may have been driven by rumours or greed. Local folklore often suggests that ancient mausoleums contain buried gold or valuables. Police are probing whether the vandalism was carried out in an attempt to search for hidden treasure.
Officials believe the incident took place during the night, as no visitors or locals were present at the site at the time. Residents from nearby villages are being questioned to determine whether any suspicious movement was noticed.
Monument sealed, security tightened
After the incident, authorities sealed the mausoleum and temporarily restricted public entry to prevent further damage and preserve evidence. Police have intensified surveillance in nearby areas and are questioning locals to identify possible suspects.
Residents claimed that security at the historical site had been inadequate for a long time. According to locals, antisocial elements often gathered near the monument in the evenings, though no such serious incident had occurred earlier. Guards posted at the site stated that duty is assigned in shifts, but there is no guard presence during late night hours.
Administration orders probe
Taking note of the seriousness of the matter, the district administration ordered an immediate investigation. An FIR has been registered at Daudnagar police station against unknown persons, and police have been instructed to probe the case from all possible angles.
Administrative sources said ASI officials have been asked to submit a detailed report assessing the extent of damage and recommending restoration and conservation measures. Authorities have reiterated that damage to nationally protected monuments is a serious offence and strict action will be taken against those responsible.
Police are examining CCTV footage from nearby areas, mobile location data, and local intelligence inputs. Officials also said action will be taken against responsible authorities if any negligence in security arrangements is found. The administration is considering additional manpower and technological surveillance to safeguard heritage sites in the future.
History and significance of the mausoleum
The mausoleum in Shamsher Nagar is believed to be around 324 years old and was constructed around 1701. Historians say Shamsher Khan was among the influential Mughal subedars in the Bihar region and played key administrative and military roles.
Historical records indicate that Shamsher Khan served as subedar of Azimabad (Patna) and Shahabad during the late 17th century. He died on March 29, 1712, near Lahore while protecting Mughal prince Rafi-ush-Shan and was later buried at this site. British historian William Irvine mentioned Shamsher Khan in detail in his book The Later Mughals.
The mausoleum is considered an example of North Afghan architectural style, marked by thick walls, a domed structure, and simple yet striking carvings. Despite signs of ageing, the monument continues to hold immense historical significance.
Declared a nationally protected monument by the ASI, the mausoleum represents not just a burial site but also a glimpse into Mughal-era administration and culture. Local historians said the vandalism is not merely damage to property but an attack on history itself.
