On 8^th November, 2023, the National Commission for Minorities (NCM) under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, GoI, held a formal, online hearing of the complaints filed by Hyderabad’s Jehangir Bisney and Nianaaz Darabna (resident) as regards the sewage blockage crisis faced by Hyderabad’s 119-year-old Bai Maneckbai Nusserwanji Chenoy Dar-e-Meher.

Hyderabad-based activist Jehangir Bisney had initiated a signature campaign emphasising the historical, cultural, and architectural significance of the Dar-e-Meher, highlighting a solid and united call for swift and permanent action to protect the Agiary. As per his report, the meeting was led by NCM’s Chairperson – Iqbal Singh Lalpura, Vice-Chairperson – Kersi Deboo and others, also including representatives from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation. Advocate Shireen Sethna Baria was assisting the complainants. NCM assured the complainants of every assistance for their case to be directed to the concerned authorities. While the community awaits a positive outcome soon, Hyderabad’s Parsi residents thanked Kersi Deboo for the personal interest taken in escalating the initiative.

Chenoy Dar-e-Meher’s original sewerage line had been unlawfully blocked by a local restaurant (Santosh Dhaba) sharing its compound wall. This contamination of the holy well-water is considered blasphemous and has deeply religious sentiments as this water is used in numerous religious rituals and ceremonies. Additionally, the lack of hygiene that the residents of the complex have been subject to is equally unacceptable, causing health concerns for all. A court order has called for the sewage to be cleaned every week, Hyderabad residents are still seeking a permanent solution to this unfortunate crisis.