Key Points:
- Prohibitory orders imposed in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar from March 25 to April 8 under Section 37 of the Maharashtra Police Act.
- The move aims to prevent unrest during upcoming festivals, including Gudi Padwa, Eid, and Ram Navami.
- Right-wing groups demand the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb, escalating communal tensions.
- Recent communal unrest across Maharashtra has seen over 800 incidents reported since January 2025.
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: In light of rising tensions surrounding the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and to ensure peace during upcoming festivals, prohibitory orders have been enforced in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar city, Maharashtra. The restrictions, effective from March 25 to April 8, were issued by Police Commissioner Praveen Pawar under Section 37 (1) (3) of the Maharashtra Police Act. These measures come amidst demands by right-wing organizations for the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khuldabad, which they regard as a symbol of oppression.
Restrictions to Maintain Order
The prohibitory orders ban gatherings of five or more people without prior permission, marches, sloganeering, and the use of loudspeakers. Carrying weapons is also strictly prohibited during this period. The police directive specifically mentions key events such as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s death anniversary (March 29), Gudi Padwa (March 30), Eid (March 31), Jhulelal Jayanti (March 31), and Ram Navami (April 6) as potential flashpoints for unrest.
Background of the Controversy
The demand for the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb has been a contentious issue. Right-wing groups argue that the tomb glorifies a ruler they accuse of oppressing Hindus during his reign. This narrative has fueled protests and communal tensions across Maharashtra. In recent months, districts like Nagpur, Pune (Rural), Beed, and Ratnagiri have witnessed violent clashes linked to this issue.
Notably, on March 17, Nagpur experienced severe communal violence after rumors spread that a religious cloth with Quranic inscriptions was burned during a protest against Aurangzeb’s tomb. The unrest resulted in stone-pelting, arson, and injuries to over 30 people, including police officers. The incident highlighted how historical grievances are being leveraged to stoke contemporary communal tensions.
Rising Communal Unrest in Maharashtra
Since January 2025, Maharashtra has reported over 800 incidents of communal unrest. These include violent protests demanding the demolition of Aurangzeb’s tomb. The state has also seen an increase in hate crimes and religiously motivated violence. In Nagpur alone, over 100 individuals have been arrested following recent riots.
Calls for Peace Amid Rising Tensions
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale recently suggested building a memorial for Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar instead of removing Aurangzeb’s tomb. He urged communities to move forward peacefully and avoid associating with divisive historical figures. Athawale also pointed out that the tomb is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has taken a firm stance against rioters and warned that damages caused during riots will be recovered from those responsible. He emphasized that law enforcement would take strict action to maintain peace.
What Lies Ahead?
As communal tensions simmer and festivals approach, authorities are on high alert to prevent further unrest. The prohibitory orders are expected to play a crucial role in maintaining order in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar during this sensitive period. However, with underlying grievances still unresolved, the situation remains precarious.
