Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has publicly expressed his support for the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb, located in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad). His remarks have reignited a political and historical debate, as the site remains protected under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)—a status granted under a Congress-led government.

Legal Hurdles in Removing Aurangzeb's Tomb

While Fadnavis backed the demand for its removal, he admitted that legal constraints prevent immediate action. Since the ASI governs the site, any modification or removal would require central government intervention and legal justification under heritage protection laws.

His comments have fueled wider discussions on whether monuments linked to controversial historical figures should remain preserved. Many Hindutva groups and political factions have demanded its demolition or relocation, arguing that honoring Aurangzeb contradicts Maharashtra’s Maratha legacy.

Historical and Political Implications

Aurangzeb’s tomb has long been a symbolic flashpoint in Maharashtra’s historical discourse. The Mughal emperor is remembered for his military campaigns against the Marathas, particularly his conflicts with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj. Critics argue that preserving his tomb in Maharashtra is an insult to the Maratha legacy.

On the other hand, historians and cultural experts caution against politicizing heritage sites, emphasizing the need to preserve history rather than erase it. The Congress party has defended the ASI’s decision, calling Fadnavis' remarks a political maneuver to stir sentiments ahead of upcoming elections.

Rising Political Tensions Over Historical Monuments

The debate over Aurangzeb’s tomb is part of a broader ideological battle in India, where historical monuments tied to the Mughal era frequently become political flashpoints. This controversy follows similar disputes over renaming cities, modifying history textbooks, and reclaiming heritage sites.

While the demand for removal gains traction, the legal complexities and ASI’s authority over the tomb ensure that any action will require due process and government approval. For now, the site remains untouched, but the controversy surrounding it is far from over.

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