Tensions Rise Over Aurangzeb’s Grave; Hindutva Leader Milind Ekbote Barred from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Amid escalating tensions over demands to remove the grave of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in Khuldabad, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district authorities have barred Hindutva leader Milind Ekbote from entering the district from March 16 to April 5. The order, issued on March 15 by the Deputy Resident Collector’s office, cites security concerns and intelligence reports suggesting possible unrest. Authorities believe that Ekbote’s organization, Dharmaveer Sambhaji Maharaj Pratishthan, along with his supporters, may attempt to reach Khuldabad to raze the tomb. “After the release of the film Chhaava, views on Aurangzeb have intensified on social media. Given the rising tensions, we have decided to prohibit Ekbote and his supporters from entering Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar,” the district administration stated. Adding to the controversy, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal have announced planned agitations starting March 17, demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. Ekbote has previously faced allegations of inciting caste-based riots in Bhima Koregaon in 2018 and participated in efforts to demolish Afzal Khan’s tomb in Pratapgad. Political Reactions Deepen the Divide Opposition Leader Ambadas Danve condemned the calls to remove the tomb, calling it a historical landmark. “Aurangzeb’s grave is a reminder that he was defeated and buried here. Removing it is an attempt to erase history. I challenge anyone who has the courage to demolish it,” Danve asserted. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena leader and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar’s Guardian Minister, Sanjay Shirsat, fueled the debate with his remarks. “Maharashtra’s soil has no place for a cruel emperor who executed Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. If anyone values Aurangzeb’s grave so much, they should take its remnants home,” he said, further alleging that opposition leaders support Pakistan. As political and communal tensions escalate, the situation remains volatile, with security measures being closely monitored in the region.
