Baku monument investigation launched over personal dedication

The State Service for the Protection, Development and Restoration of Cultural Assets has launched an investigation into a controversial inscription on the monument of Shah Ismail Khatai in Baku’s Khatai district.

The controversy arose after social media users pointed out a dedication on the monument's metal plaque that reads, “dedicated to grandson Ismail Atakushev – Ibrahim Zeynalov.” Public activists questioned the legality and ethics of using a state-funded monumental landmark to commemorate an artist's personal family member.

The monument, erected in 1993, is under state protection as a site of national importance. Authorities stated that any additions or interventions to protected monuments that do not pertain to their historical, artistic, or architectural characteristics are prohibited, as they can distort the cultural significance of the site. The investigation will be conducted in coordination with local executive authorities and an expert commission under the Ministry of Culture.