Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has reiterated that while the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb at Khultabad in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district remains a protected monument, any attempts to glorify the controversial figure will not be permitted. The statement came as right-wing groups continue to call for the removal of the 17th-century emperor’s tomb, amidst ongoing tensions, reported the Siasat.
Fadnavis, speaking to reporters in Nagpur, clarified that although opinions about Aurangzeb may differ, the monument is legally protected. He emphasized, “Whether we like Aurangzeb or not, his tomb is a protected monument. We will not allow anyone to glorify him,” adding that structures outside legal purview should be removed.
The row surrounding the tomb was reignited earlier this month after a protest led by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), which sought the removal of the tomb. Reports of a “chadar” with holy inscriptions being burned during the protest led to violent clashes in Nagpur, heightening tensions in the region.
In a related matter, Fadnavis dismissed Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s recent comments criticizing the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Gandhi had suggested that the NEP was being used to communalize education, but Fadnavis defended the policy, asserting, “We are Indianizing education. The British introduced an education system aimed at making Indians their subordinates. Any patriot would support Indianizing education.”
Regarding the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena’s (MNS) demand for the use of Marathi in banks, Fadnavis agreed that Marathi should be used where expected but stressed the importance of adhering to the law.
Fadnavis also addressed concerns about the upcoming 2027 Kumbh Mela in Nashik. He assured that the government is working on missions to ensure the cleanliness of rivers, emphasizing that effluents from various sources will be treated before being released into the water bodies. He also highlighted efforts to reduce power tariffs in Maharashtra, promising cheaper electricity for residents in the coming years.
Fadnavis’ statement should be viewed impartially, considering both the historical significance and the legal protection of the monument. It is important to recognize the complexities of history without allowing such statements to further polarize communities. A balanced perspective is essential to maintain harmony and unity in society, rather than turning historical figures into sources of controversy.
