Tue Oct 21 10:34:01 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text, followed by a news article written from it:
Summary:
Three unidentified women are facing legal action after a video surfaced showing them offering namaz within the protected premises of Pune’s historic Shaniwar Wada fort. The incident has sparked protests and condemnation. Right-wing groups, led by BJP MP Medha Kulkarni, staged demonstrations and performed purification rituals at the site, claiming offense to Hindu sentiments. Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane echoed these sentiments. Meanwhile, the Congress party criticized the BJP’s response, particularly their use of cow urine in purification rituals, and pointed to the fort’s complex history including the presence of Peshwa-era dargahs.
News Article:
Namaz Offering at Historic Pune Fort Sparks Controversy, Legal Action
PUNE, MAHARASHTRA – October 21, 2025 – A case has been registered against three unidentified women after a video circulated online showing them offering namaz at Pune’s historic Shaniwar Wada, a protected monument. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, October 18th, has ignited controversy and prompted legal action.
The Pune City Police have filed an FIR under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Rules, alleging the women violated restrictions applicable to protected sites. The complaint was lodged by an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officer.
The video sparked immediate backlash. On Sunday, BJP MP Medha Kulkarni led protests, accompanied by members of a right-wing organization. They conducted purification rituals at the spot where the namaz was offered, citing the fort’s significance to Hindu heritage. Security has been increased at the site following the protests.
Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane added fuel to the fire, stating Shaniwar Wada is a “symbol of Hindu valour” and questioned the acceptability of Hindus chanting Hanuman Chalisa at Muslim holy sites like Haji Ali.
However, the BJP’s response has been met with criticism. Maharashtra Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant condemned the use of cow urine as part of the purification ritual, calling it regressive. He pointed to Shaniwar Wada’s complex history, noting that the fort once housed Mastani and has historically contained Peshwa-era dargahs, suggesting tolerance for diverse religious practices was not unprecedented. Sawant even referenced the assassination of young Peshwa Narayanrao at the site and suggested that “invoking the Almighty’s name is good” and the purification was unnecessary.
The incident has highlighted the sensitivity surrounding religious practices at historical sites and sparked a debate about religious tolerance and the interpretation of history in contemporary India. Authorities are continuing to investigate the matter.
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