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Aurangzeb’s Tomb Cannot Be Demolished By Maharashtra Govt Despite Widespread Protests & Public Demands; Here’s Why

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Nagpur: The recent violence in Nagpur, triggered by demands for the demolition of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Maharashtra’s Khuldabad, has intensified debates over the monument’s existence. Clashes erupted on March 17 after protests by Bajrang Dal and VHP, who called for the removal of the tomb, citing Aurangzeb’s oppressive rule. The unrest escalated, leading to violent confrontations, police injuries and curfews in affected areas.

However, despite the growing demand, the Maharashtra government does not have the legal authority to demolish the tomb. The site is protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (AMASR Act), 1958, and falls under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), making its demolition legally impossible without central approval.

What is the AMASR Act, 1958?

The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 was enacted to preserve sites of historical and cultural significance. Under this Act, any monument classified as a ‘Monument of National Importance’ is protected from alteration, damage or destruction. The ASI, which functions under the Union Ministry of Culture, is responsible for maintaining these monuments.

Once a monument is notified under this Act, neither state governments nor local authorities can modify or demolish it. Only the Central Government, through a detailed legal and administrative process, can decide to de-notify such sites.

Why Is Aurangzeb’s Tomb A Protected Monument?

Aurangzeb, the sixth Mughal emperor, died in 1707 in Ahmednagar (now Ahilya Nagar) and was buried in Khuldabad near the dargah of Sheikh Zainuddin, his spiritual guide. His tomb is considered historically and culturally significant for several reasons:

– Historical Importance – Aurangzeb ruled for nearly 50 years, shaping India’s political and cultural history. His burial site remains part of India’s historical heritage.

– Architectural Value – Unlike grand Mughal tombs, Aurangzeb’s simple resting place reflects his lifestyle and is an example of minimalist Mughal architecture.

– Cultural Significance – The tomb is part of the larger Khuldabad complex, which houses several important Sufi shrines and historical figures’ graves.

– Preservation of Heritage – The ASI protects such sites to maintain historical integrity and prevent the destruction of India’s cultural legacy.

Can the Maharashtra Government Order Its Demolition?

No, the Maharashtra government cannot order the demolition of Aurangzeb’s tomb because:

1. It is a National Monument – The site is classified under the AMASR Act, making it a Monument of National Importance.

2. Only the Central Government Has Authority – The state government has no jurisdiction to alter or de-notify the tomb. Any such decision lies with the Union Ministry of Culture.

3. Legal Consequences – Any attempt to demolish the tomb would be unlawful and could lead to legal action against the state government.

4. International Reputation – Destroying a protected historical site could damage India’s global image as a country that values its diverse heritage.

What Has The Maharashtra Government Said?

During the inauguration of Maharashtra’s first Shivaji Maharaj temple earlier this month, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis acknowledged public sentiments against Aurangzeb but stated that legal constraints prevent any action against the tomb. “It is protected by the ASI, and we must follow the law,” he said. However, he assured that Maharashtra would only glorify Shivaji Maharaj, not Aurangzeb.

Despite political and public pressure, Aurangzeb’s tomb remains protected under Indian law. The Maharashtra government lacks the authority to demolish it, as it is a Monument of National Importance under the ASI. Any decision regarding its status rests solely with the Central Government. The Nagpur violence has intensified the debate, but legally, the demand remains unfeasible under current heritage laws.

Maharashtra

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the situation remains peaceful and tense

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Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, while clarifying in a high-level meeting on the communal violence in Nagpur, said that the violence happened due to social media. The video of setting fire to Aurangzeb’s symbolic grave was shared on social media saying that Kalma Tayyaba’s chaadar was burnt, after which this video went viral on social media.

In the afternoon, the police had heard the complaint after hushing up the matter, but in the evening rumors were spread through social media and the situation worsened. He said that a report has been sought from Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Singhal and senior officials on the Nagpur violence and the situation has been reviewed. Law and order is maintained.

He said that those who attacked the police will not be spared and strict action will be taken against them. He said that property loss and compensation will be recovered from the rioters who committed violence, otherwise their property will be confiscated. On the lines of UP, Devendra Fadnavis has now announced that the losses from the rioters will be compensated in Maharashtra as well. He said that so far many accused have been arrested, including four children.

So far 105 accused have been arrested. Curfew has also been relaxed. Addressing the press, Fadnavis said that social media accounts that disturb peace are being investigated. Many objectionable content has also been removed.

Fadnavis said that people were misled on social media and crowds were mobilized in it. Investigation of global conspiracy is also going on. So far investigation of controversial content on social media is going on. He said that there was never a riot in Nagpur since 1992, but this violence was spread.

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Crime

Four arrested for duping CET aspirants by promising them success

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Mumbai: Mumbai Crime Branch has claimed to have arrested four fraudsters for duping aspirants by promising to increase success rate and ratio in MBA, MHCET and other government exams. Crime Branch has busted a gang which stole the data of candidates registered and enrolled in State CET Cell Mumbai MBA, MHCT exams and contacted a total of 72 candidates from Maharashtra through mobile phones, luring them to get admission in prestigious colleges and demanding Rs 15 to 20 lakh.

Crime Branch Unit 5 has taken action in this case, while the case was registered at Azad Maidan Police Station in Mumbai. The accused involved in this case used to make calls and audio and video calls through WhatsApp to the affected candidates of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Bihar, Rajasthan and other states and extorted lakhs of rupees from them by luring them to increase percentage in MBA, MHCT exams. Police have claimed to have arrested 4 accused from New Delhi using modern technology in this case. More arrests are expected in this case, as important action has been taken by wearing masks.

DCP Datta Nalawade said that complaints were being received from various districts of Maharashtra that there was manipulation in government examinations and the percentage of admission in prestigious colleges was being increased by hacking the website. The Crime Branch took action and arrested four accused. These accused told that if any center including Beed, Jalna and Parbhani is selected in the state of Maharashtra, then they will play an important role in making it successful. This action was taken on the instructions of Mumbai Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar.

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Maharashtra

‘Anyone Who Shows An Eye To Our Muslim Brothers’: Ajit Pawar At Iftar Party In Mumbai’s Marine Lines Amid Protests Of Razing Aurangzeb’s Tomb

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Mumbai: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar hosted an iftar party in Mumbai’s Marine Lines, where he spoke about India’s cultural diversity and cautioned against threats to Muslims amid the ongoing controversy surrounding Aurangzeb’s grave.

Addressing the gathering at Marine Lines during Ramadan, Pawar, the leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP-Ajit Pawar), reaffirmed the nation’s strength in unity. “India is a symbol of unity in diversity. We should not fall into the trap of divisive forces,” he stated.

Pawar highlighted the significance of celebrating festivals together, emphasizing that recent and upcoming occasions like Holi, Gudi Padwa, and Eid teach the values of coexistence. “We should all celebrate together because unity is our real strength. I want to assure you that your brother Ajit Pawar is with you,” he added, expressing solidarity with the Muslim community.

Speaking about Ramadan, he said the sacred month transcends religious boundaries and embodies values of humanity, sacrifice and self-discipline. He stressed that fasting during Ramadan not only purifies the body but also fosters compassion for the underprivileged.

Pawar’s Warning At Iftar Party

Pawar also issued a stern warning against communal tensions. “Anyone who tries to intimidate our Muslim brothers and sisters, create conflict between communities, or take the law into their own hands will not be spared,” he declared.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is considered the holiest period for Muslims. During this time, followers observe fasting from dawn to dusk, a practice known as Roza, which is one of Islam’s five pillars. It promotes self-restraint, devotion, and spiritual reflection.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra has been witnessing heated political discussions over the Nagpur violence, which erupted following the Mahayuti government’s demand to remove Aurangzeb’s grave from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

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