An official from the Ministry of Civil Affairs warned on Monday that it might take compulsory measures to ensure the dead were buried in accordance with regulations, following ongoing incidence of illegally-built tombs and graves.

The Regulation of Funeral Management, was issued by the State Council on Nov 16, stipulating that tombs and cemeteries should not be built on arable farmland, in forests, or at scenic spots.

He Qingxun, director of the funeral management section of the Ministry of Civil Affairs, said in an interview with xinhuanet.com that the civil affairs authorities could apply to the courts to take compulsory measures if tombs were illegally built.

Law of Land Management rules stipulate that those who build tombs on arable farmland can be punished.