'Hindu-Taliban': Uddhav Sena Lashes Out At Those Calling For Aurangzeb Tomb Removal

Shiv Sena(UBT)'s mouthpiece Saamna has sparked controversy by labeling those demanding the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb as "Hindu-Taliban."

Shiv Sena (UBT) mouthpiece Saamna stirs new controversy in the Aurangzeb tomb row.

Source : PTI

Shiv Sena's (UBT) mouthpiece Saamna has stirred a new controversy by calling those who are demanding the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb "Hindu-Taliban." 

"Some new Hindutva advocates have raised such voices, claiming that just as the Babri Masjid was demolished, they will also destroy Aurangzeb’s tomb. These people are enemies of history and Maharashtra’s proud tradition," read the newspaper's editorial. 

"They want to spread poison in Maharashtra’s atmosphere and present themselves as Hindu-Taliban. By distorting Hindutva, they are also insulting Shivaji Maharaj’s vision of Hindavi Swarajya," it added. 

The editorial alleged that some people want to erase history, adding that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis should "stop this dirty business" being carried out in the name of Shivaji Maharaj. 

The controversy began earlier this month with Samajwadi Party MP Abu Azmi eulogising the Mughal era ruler during a interview. Subsequently he was suspended from Mahashrashtra Assembly for the remaining of the budget session. 

The row has since snowballed which escalated after some Hindu organisations threatened a "Babri-like" action if Aurangzeb's tomb is not razed in Sambhaji Nagar.  

Aurangzeb's Tomb Mark Of Maratha's Resilience 

The editorial revisited history emphasising that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Marathas fought against the oppression for 25 years, ultimately ensuring that the Mughal ruler met his end in Maharashtra. 

It argued that the presence of Aurangzeb's tomb in Maharashtra is not the mark of Mughal dominance but a symbol of the Maratha's resilience. 

"The king established 'Swarajya' by the power of the sword, and anyone who faced his sword was buried in this very soil. One such king was Aurangzeb. Aurangzeb's tomb is a symbol of Maharashtra's identity and its fighting spirit. Some fanatics linked to BJP or RSS have taken the stance of demolishing this tomb, or they will destroy it. They need to understand history," it said.