Pune: A video of Muslim women offering Namaz inside Pune’s historic Shaniwar Wada has triggered a major political controversy after BJP MP Medha Kulkarni led a “purification” drive using cow urine at the site. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, has drawn widespread criticism for deepening communal divisions in a city known for its harmony.
Following the viral clip, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) lodged a complaint with Pune City Police, leading to a case against unidentified women for offering prayers inside the protected monument. Police have since tightened security around the fort.
Kulkarni defended her act, calling the prayers “an insult to Pune’s heritage.” She stated that Shaniwar Wada, seen as a Maratha pride symbol, was “not a place for Namaz.” She and her supporters performed a “Shiv Vandana” after cleaning the area with cow urine, claiming it was necessary to “purify” the site.
Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rane supported Kulkarni’s view, questioning how Muslims would react if Hindus performed rituals at mosques. Opposition leaders, however, condemned the act as an attempt to inflame communal sentiment. NCP leader Rupali Patil Thombre urged the police to file a case against the MP for trying to “disturb social harmony.”
AIMIM spokesperson Waris Pathan accused the BJP of “spreading hatred” and reminded that the Constitution protects religious freedom. “You should purify your mind, not public spaces,” he said, criticising the targeting of Muslim worshippers.
Police stated that all actions at the fort would follow ASI protocol and promised strict enforcement of security measures.
