Yangon, Nov 16: In a rebuff to Pakistan, the Myanmar authorities have resolutely turned down its efforts to claim the 'Mazar' (mausoleum) of the last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar even as they have allowed Indian help for beautification of the mazar. Myanmar assured India that no decision contrary to India's interest would be taken with regard to the mausoleum, an External Affairs Ministry official said.
Work on marble tiling of the forecourt of the two-storey mausoleum is being undertaken by the people of Indian origin with the help of Indian mission here.
The Mazar, located at no. 6, theatre road, is the most famous address for any Indian visiting the Myanmarese capital, Yangon. Beginning with Subhash Chandra Bose, there has been a tradition of Indian leaders visiting the monument as part of their official itinerary.
Pakistan has continuously made efforts to claim the monument as its own by first demanding that the grave be shifted to Pakistan. After a refusal from the Myanmar government, Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf announced a donation of USD 50,000 to construct a new building at the Mazar. This was also turned down.
Bureau Report