The correspondent of Turmush decided to find out how relevant the issue of relocating the cemetery and the possible change of purpose for this site is.
Saitali Anarov, a resident of Batken, expressed his opinion on the feasibility of relocation: “I believe it is possible. Nowadays, many facilities are demolished or relocated to build something new. If there is an opportunity, the same can be done here,” he shared.
Raziya Ösörova, a local resident, noted that the cemetery has existed for a long time and is referred to as the Russian cemetery. “It has been here since before I was born; they say it is an Orthodox cemetery. Burials have not been practiced there for a long time. In my opinion, it should be removed. There are bones left. In our village, Kök-Tash, the cemetery was also removed, and now this area is used for planting corn and barley. I support the idea of using this place for other needs as well,” she said.
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Ubaidulla Tajibaev, another local resident, reminded about the religious aspect of the issue: “According to religious prescriptions, if 40 years have passed since the last burial, a prayer can be conducted, and work on relocation can begin. In this case, the site can be used differently. This happens in other regions as well. If construction work begins, it will be positive,” he noted.
Saidakhmad Appazov, the chief imam-khatib of Batken and the Batken region, emphasized that Sharia allows for the relocation of a cemetery when there are valid reasons and after discussion with the community. “The necessity for relocation must be justified by the needs of the residents: if the site poses a danger, if infrastructure improvement is needed, or if there are health risks for the population. In such cases, religion permits relocation, provided there is consultation with the people and proper clarification,” Appazov added.
