Nagpur is under curfew after violent protests erupted in the city over demands to demolish the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in Khuldabad, Aurangabad (now known as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar).

The protests began after Samajwadi Party MP Abu Azmi praised Aurangzeb, which led to an angry response from various groups. On March 7, Udayanraje Bhosale, a descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and an MP from Satara, demanded that the tomb be demolished. This fueled the protests, which have now spread to different districts in Maharashtra, including Pune, Kolhapur, Nashik, Malegaon, and Ahilyanagar.

On March 17, members of Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) staged protests in various cities. In Kolhapur, the VHP destroyed a mock tomb, while in Pune, Bajrang Dal members demonstrated with a hammer while shouting slogans of "Jai Shri Ram."

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reacted strongly to the controversy. He stated that any person glorifying Aurangzeb's ideas would face strict legal action. Fadnavis also said, "It is unfortunate that Maharashtra has to protect and care for the tomb of Aurangzeb, a person who killed thousands of people. It is protected by the ASI, so we have to abide by the law; however, I assure you only Shivaji Maharaj will be glorified. I will not allow glorification or ennoblement of Aurangzeb."

What are ASI-protected monuments?

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protects monuments and sites of national importance under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (AMASR Act) of 1958. The ASI operates under the Ministry of Culture and is responsible for maintaining these sites.

Protected monuments include:

  • Prehistoric Sites – Places where early human activity took place, like rock shelters and stone tools.

  • Rock-cut Caves – Caves carved into rocks with ancient sculptures and writings, like Ajanta and Ellora Caves.

  • Stupas – Buddhist monuments like the Sanchi Stupa.

  • Temples – Famous temples like the Sun Temple at Konark and Brihadeeswarar Temple.

  • Mosques and Tombs – Islamic structures like Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb.

  • Forts and Palaces – Forts and palaces like the Red Fort and Mysore Palace.

  • Churches and Synagogues – Religious sites like the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa.

  • Inscriptions and Pillars – Historical inscriptions and pillars like Ashoka Pillars.

  • Excavated Sites – Historical ruins like Nalanda University.

Aurangzeb tomb
Photograph: (The Contrete Paparazzi)

 

Why is Aurangzeb’s Tomb protected by ASI?

Aurangzeb’s tomb is protected by the ASI because of its historical and cultural value:

  • Historical importance – Aurangzeb was the sixth Mughal emperor, and his rule is an important part of Indian history. His tomb represents that era.

  • Architectural value – Unlike other grand Mughal tombs, Aurangzeb’s tomb is simple and reflects his personal modesty.

  • Cultural significance – The tomb is part of a larger complex in Khuldabad, where other significant figures are also buried.

  • Preservation of heritage – Protecting such monuments helps keep India's cultural and historical heritage alive.

Can the Maharashtra government demolish the Tomb?

No, the Maharashtra government cannot demolish or remove Aurangzeb’s tomb. Since it is classified as a "Monument of National Importance," only the Central Government has the power to delist or change the status of the site under the AMASR Act of 1958.

There is no confirmed date on when Aurangzeb’s tomb was declared protected by the ASI. However, it has long been recognized for its historical and cultural significance under the AMASR Act.

What is the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)?

The Archaeological Survey of India was founded in 1861 by British Army engineer Alexander Cunningham, who is known as the "Father of Indian Archaeology." The ASI is responsible for archaeological research and preserving ancient monuments and sites across India.

It functions under the AMASR Act of 1958 and the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act of 1972. Currently, the ASI protects over 3,693 monuments and archaeological sites of national importance across India.

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