
Authorities have tightened security around the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. This follows threats from Hindu organizations, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal. The groups have demanded the removal of the structure, warning that it could meet the same fate as the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya.
On Monday, security personnel were seen stationed around the site as Bajrang Dal activists staged protests to press for their demands.
Bajrang Dal’s Warning Over Aurangzeb’s Tomb
Bajrang Dal leader Nitin Mahajan has called for the removal of Aurangzeb’s grave. Speaking on Sunday, he warned that if the government does not act, the tomb could be demolished in a mass movement similar to what occurred in Ayodhya.
#WATCH | Maharashtra | Security deployed at Aurangzeb’s Tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
— ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2025
Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal have demanded the state government that Aurangzeb’s Tomb should be removed. pic.twitter.com/eWBHpI7HiW
"In Sambhajinagar, a grave is being worshipped— the grave of Sambhaji's murderer. When such graves are honored, society develops accordingly. Earlier, we were helpless, but now VHP and Bajrang Dal are demanding its removal," Mahajan said in an interview with ANI.
He added that if the government does not take action by March 17, the groups will launch a large-scale agitation.
BJP’s Inquiry Into ASI Spending on Aurangzeb’s Tomb
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Goshamahal MLA T Raja Singh has written to Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. He has requested detailed information on the funds spent by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for the maintenance of Aurangzeb’s tomb.
Congress Condemns VHP, Bajrang Dal's Actions
The Opposition Congress has criticized the demands made by VHP and Bajrang Dal, accusing them of trying to disrupt peace in Maharashtra.
"They have nothing else to do. They don't want Maharashtra’s people to live peacefully. Their actions will slow the state's development. Aurangzeb ruled here for 27 years but could not change Maharashtra. What will they achieve by removing his grave?" said senior Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar, as quoted by ANI.
Ongoing Tensions Over Historical Sites
The dispute over Aurangzeb’s tomb reflects ongoing tensions surrounding historical monuments and religious sentiments in India. With security now heightened at the site, the coming days will determine whether the government meets the demands of the Hindu outfits or if further protests will escalate.
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