BJP trying to ‘erase Shivaji’ through its pursuit of Aurangzeb: Shiv Sena (UBT)

Wed Mar 19 21:50:00 UTC 2025: **Maharashtra Tensions Flare as Aurangzeb Grave Controversy Ignites Political Firestorm**

Nagpur, Maharashtra – March 20, 2025 – Political tensions are escalating in Maharashtra following a controversy surrounding the grave of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The Shiv Sena (UBT), an opposition party, has accused the ruling BJP of prioritizing Aurangzeb over Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a revered Maratha king, using the historical figure for political gain.

The controversy erupted after a statement praising Aurangzeb by Abu Azmi sparked widespread demonstrations and a call by BJP leader Udayanraje Bhosale for the removal of Aurangzeb’s grave, a monument protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). A recent editorial in the Shiv Sena (UBT)’s mouthpiece, *Saamana*, accused the BJP of attempting to diminish the significance of Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj by focusing on Aurangzeb. The editorial further criticized the BJP for what it called a distortion of history, noting the contrast between Shivaji Maharaj’s tolerant policies and recent incidents of communal violence in the state.

The editorial highlighted recent communal clashes in Nagpur, Rajapur-Ratnagiri, Parbhani, and Beed, claiming the state government’s inaction is fueling religious hatred. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s statement that the Nagpur clashes were pre-planned and the government’s inability to remove the protected Aurangzeb grave were also criticized. The Shiv Sena (UBT) called for an end to the political maneuvering surrounding the grave and urged the BJP-led government to de-escalate tensions and restore peace. The party also expressed concern over statements made by BJP MP Pradeep Purohit equating Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Curfew remains in effect in 10 police station limits in Nagpur for a second consecutive day following violence that erupted on March 17th, resulting in 84 arrests. The situation is being closely monitored amid heightened political and communal tensions.

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