Aurangzeb’s Tomb Sparks Political Row In Maharashtra; Removal Demands Intensify
In Khuldabad, near Aurangabad, now called Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Aurangzeb's tomb has, surprisingly, become a political flashpoint in Maharashtra.
Aurangzeb’s Tomb Sparks Political Row In Maharashtra; Removal Demands Intensify
In Khuldabad, near Aurangabad, now called Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Aurangzeb’s tomb has, surprisingly, become a political flashpoint in Maharashtra. The resting place of the Mughal emperor has been turned into a site of contention-hence bringing to fore the tensions around identity, history, and political narratives that are surfacing in the state.
The flickered fueled by the ignominious social media glorification of Aurangzeb was fanned by several groups and individuals. Given Aurangzeb’s historical record of cruel oppression against his Maratha opponents and Hindu rulers, such moves were a cause of anger for the pro-Maratha and right-wing outfits. Several leaders condemned this glorification, stating that it would dampen Maratha pride and culturally insult the very identity of Maharashtra, especially in the light of the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
With tension growing, some political leaders have called for an uproar to be held at the Aurangzeb grave, or access to it, as hearkening to divisive sentiments. Meanwhile, the tomb, maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is protected as a heritage site under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites Act. ASI has further clarified that removal or demolition will be done under the provisions of existing legislation.
The ruling party alliance in Maharashtra has been treading carefully in this matter, balancing public emotion with the legal position. The controversy has also become useful in wider political jockeying, especially as leaders appeal to their vote banks in anticipation of the coming elections.
Right now, while some restrictions on gatherings at the site may indeed be enforced to prevent the emergence of tensions, the question of removing Aurangzeb’s tomb appears hard to envisage in the realm of law and application.
This controversy illustrates the extent to which historical narratives are being weaponized in contemporary politics, reflecting deeper societal cleavages.
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