Aurangzeb’s tomb dispute escalates in Maharashtra; Hindu groups demand removal

PTC Web Desk:  The controversy surrounding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (formerly Aurangabad), Maharashtra, has intensified, with Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) demanding its immediate removal. In response to the growing tensions, security around the tomb has been significantly increased.

Govind Shende, VHP secretary, Maharashtra and Goa, referred to Aurangzeb’s tomb as a "symbol of slavery." He stated, “Aurangzeb brutally tortured Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj for 40 days before executing him. Why should a cruel ruler’s memorial still exist?”

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, “Those glorifying the brutal ideologies of Aurangzeb will face strict legal action. We will crush such ideologies at their root.”

On Monday, Bajrang Dal and VHP organised protests across Maharashtra, demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. Demonstrators also burned effigies of Mughal invaders as part of their agitation.

BJP MLA from Telangana T Raja Singh extended his support to the VHP and Bajrang Dal’s demand. Earlier, he had written a letter to Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on March 15, seeking details of the maintenance expenses allocated by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for Aurangzeb’s tomb.

He questioned, “Why should taxpayer money be spent on maintaining the grave of a ruler who destroyed Hindu temples and oppressed our ancestors? This must be stopped immediately.”

Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction) leader Sanjay Raut criticised BJP leaders, stating, “Aurangzeb’s tomb is a testament to the bravery of the Marathas. It reminds future generations of how Shivaji Maharaj and Maratha warriors fought against invaders.”

Bajrang Dal leader Nitin Mahajan reiterated the demand for the tomb’s removal, warning that if the government fails to act, the site could meet a fate similar to the Babri Masjid.

He said, “People are offering prayers at Aurangzeb’s tomb, honouring the killer of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. This is unacceptable. If the government does not act, we will launch a ‘Kar Seva’ to remove it.”

In view of the rising tensions, the police have imposed strict security measures around Aurangzeb’s tomb. Barricades have been set up, and the main entrance has been sealed, restricting public access. Visitors can now only view the tomb from outside.

Meanwhile, Congress MLA Vijay Wadettiwar criticised the protests, stating, “Bajrang Dal and VHP have no real issues to address. They want to create unrest and slow down Maharashtra’s development. What will they achieve by removing Aurangzeb’s tomb now?”

Aurangzeb’s tomb is located in Khuldabad, about 25 km from Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. As per historical records, following his death in 1707, Aurangzeb was buried in accordance with his wishes, near the dargah of his spiritual mentor, Sheikh Zainuddin. The tomb was initially a simple earthen grave, later adorned with marble by British Viceroy Lord Curzon.