Mumbai: Authorities have stepped up security at Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Aurangabad following threats from right-wing groups, including Bajrang Dal, to demolish it.

About The Case

The tomb, a protected site under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is at the center of a growing political and communal controversy. Bajrang Dal’s Mumbai, Maharashtra, and Goa convenor Vivek Kulkarni has openly declared that the structure will face the same fate as the Babri Masjid.

He announced plans for a ‘Kar Sewa’ with lakhs of people to demolish the tomb, stating that the organisation will first stage a dharna and write to the collector before proceeding. The row began on March 7 when Udayan Raje Bhosale, a descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji and MP from Satara, demanded the tomb’s demolition, calling Aurangzeb a “thief and looter.”

A day later, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis acknowledged that many people wanted the site removed but maintained that legal procedures must be followed. ASI officials clarified that the tomb holds the status of a ‘monument of national interest. The controversy has affected local businesses, with traders reporting a decline in visitors. “Ramzan might also be a factor, but if the situation continues, we’ll have to shut down,” a shopkeeper said.

Meanwhile, the ruling Shiv Sena and opposition Shiv Sena (UBT) have clashed over the issue. Leader of Opposition Ambadas Danve said removing the tomb would erase history, while state minister Sanjay Shirsat countered, saying there was no place for Aurangzeb’s grave in Maharashtra.