Names of 80 Englishmen massacred by Mir Qasim in 1763 inscribed on the headstone at the graveyard. Picture by Sachin

Patna, Nov. 29: Regular visitors to the cemetery near Girija Hospital are well acquainted with Sunil Kumar Mehta. The 30-year-old-man has been a gravedigger and caretaker at the burial ground for 11 years. His labours to preserve the final resting place of many, however, are remunerated by a pittance.

Mehta’s monthly salary is only Rs 25.

Sunil reports for work everyday at 8am and remains on duty till 5 in the evening. He has, however, been paid this amount since he took the job in 2000 after the sudden death of his father, Mohan Mehta.

“When my father passed away, I was an Intermediate student. I had to bear all the responsibilities of my family. As I did not find any other means to earn a living, I took this job,” said Sunil.

He is the fourth generation member in his family to be employed at the cemetery. “When my great grandfather used to work here, he was paid Rs 5. My salary is Rs 25. How am I supposed to make two ends meet with this?” said Sunil.

The cemetery that he looks after is of considerable historic significance. It was constructed in the 16th century and has a number of old graves with unusual headstones. The most unique among these is a tall tower-like structure under which are buried 80 Englishmen, massacred by the Nawab of Bengal, Mir Qasim, in 1763.

The names of many British surgeons, soldiers and merchants, who were killed on their way to Bengal, are engraved on the structure.

Mehta grows flowers and vegetables in this graveyard to complement his meagre income. “I earn around Rs 50 daily from this,” he added.

The authorities of Padri ki Haveli — in charge of the cemetery — are, however, unwilling to increase the payment.

Father Jerum, the parish priest of Padri ki Haveli, told The Telegraph that he did not know how much Mehta was paid.

“I know that the payment is low but I don’t think there is any need to increase it. Sunil’s father used to work for free. Why should we increase Sunil’s salary? He also makes an extra income by growing and selling flowers and vegetables from the graveyard. He has no right to do this but we have allowed him to,” said Father Jerum.

Mehta has a counter argument to this, though. “I have to go to Bakarganj to collect my salary. It is very far from Patna City, and I spend Rs 30 as travelling expense to collect Rs 25. I don’t think I have cheated anyone,” he said.

The authorities concerned, however, are planning to dispose of Mehta’s services altogether.

“It is difficult to find a place to live in Patna City. So, we are planning to take the job away from Sunil and giving it to a family which will live at the cemetery for free, and will perform the duties there,” said Father Jerum.