Arvind Kumar Kapil, Bhopal
Once known for its serene hills and greenery, Bhopal’s popular tourist spot Manbhavan Tekri is now grappling with a dark transformation into a haven for drug addicts, peddlers, and petty criminals.
Visitors report that secluded caves and bushes on the hill are now being misused by intoxicated individuals for substance abuse and unruly behavior. Even staffs at the nearby Jain temple and local police have failed to curb these illegal activities.
Worse, cannabis is being openly sold, making it easy for tourists and addicts to access narcotics. The area is often occupied by addicts lounging in the open, creating an unsafe environment—especially for women, who face the risk of harassment. Locals allege that unauthorized parties and illicit activities go on late into the night, while authorities turn a blind eye.
The temple priest shared that while they try to drive away troublemakers and alert the police, the problem persists. Shockingly, Manbhavan Tekri was also the site of a tragic 2019 incident where a 12-year-old girl was raped and murdered—yet, criminal activities continue.
Station In-Charge Brijendra Marskole claimed to have no current reports of crime at the site but assured action upon receiving information.
Additional Police Commissioner Shalini Dixit has now ordered daily patrolling and strict action against all anti-social elements at Manbhavan Tekri. She emphasized that the police are committed to ensuring safety and curbing illegal activities at all religious and tourist spots across the city.
