bajrang-dal-demands-removal-of-aurangzeb-s-tomb-in-maha

Security has been increased at the tomb of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, following demands from right-wing groups Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal for its removal.

 

These groups have called for action against the site, arguing that it represents a controversial part of history.

 

The increased vigilance aims to prevent any potential unrest in the region. Authorities have deployed additional personnel to ensure law and order, particularly in light of the protest scheduled by these organisations.

 

The groups claim that the presence of Aurangzeb’s tomb is an insult to the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, who was executed on the orders of the Mughal ruler.

 

Bajrang Dal leader Nitin Mahajan, while addressing the media, warned that if the government does not remove the tomb, it will meet the same fate as the Babri Masjid.

 

He criticised the practice of people paying respects at Aurangzeb’s grave, stating that it glorifies a ruler who was responsible for the persecution of Hindus. He further asserted that the VHP and Bajrang Dal would take to the streets if their demands were not met.

 

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA T Raja Singh also joined the demand for the tomb’s removal. Addressing a gathering, he declared that Hindus in Maharashtra and across India wanted Aurangzeb’s grave to be destroyed.

 

He questioned why the tomb still existed and reiterated his commitment to establishing a "Hindu Rashtra" where such remnants of Mughal rule would have no place.

 

Singh’s remarks have drawn criticism from opposition leaders. Congress National Spokesperson Atul Londhe Patil expressed concern over the rising tensions in Maharashtra, alleging that law and order in the state had collapsed.

 

Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar accused VHP and Bajrang Dal of disrupting peace and creating communal disharmony.

 

Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora also weighed in on the controversy. He criticised those who, according to him, fail to understand the difference between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Aurangzeb.

 

Deora further stated that parties such as Shiv Sena (UBT) have lost public support because they compromised on the ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray.