Congress Opposes Demolition of Aurangzeb's Grave, Citing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Legacy
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Synopsis
Congress leader Bhai Jagtap has criticized the calls for demolishing Aurangzeb's grave, arguing it seeks to erase the historical significance of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Maharashtra's narrative.
Key Takeaways
- Bhai Jagtap opposes the demolition of Aurangzeb's grave.
- Destruction of historical sites threatens Maharashtra's history.
- Jagtap emphasizes the importance of preserving history.
- Comparison made between CM Fadnavis and Aurangzeb was not personal.
- Historical events should be respected and preserved.
Mumbai, March 17 (NationPress) As calls intensify for the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s grave in Maharashtra, Congress leader Bhai Jagtap vehemently criticized the initiative on Monday, asserting that it represents an effort to obliterate the history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the rich legacy of Maharashtra.
Jagtap highlighted that the grave is an integral part of the state’s historical narrative, and demolishing it would undermine the region's vibrant past.
In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Jagtap voiced his apprehensions, stating, "What purpose does uprooting history serve? Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy is being systematically erased. This is a continuous agenda, one that has been advocated by the RSS and other factions for years. They concealed the Samadhi of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Raigad for centuries, and it was only Mahatma Phule who brought it to light. Now, they are once again targeting our history."
"Aurangzeb conquered a significant portion of India. However, it was Shivaji Maharaj who dealt him a decisive blow, capturing him and ultimately leading to his demise in Maharashtra. The fact that Aurangzeb rests in our land is a reflection of our history, which we should cherish, not obliterate," he explained to IANS.
Jagtap contended that the dismantling of historical sites like Aurangzeb's grave would result in the loss of vital elements of Maharashtra's history.
He pointed out, "This issue transcends a single grave; it concerns the erasure of a significant chapter in our shared history, one of valor, sacrifice, and struggle. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ensured that the betrayal of Afzal Khan was commemorated at Pratapgarh, commanding that the body be interred there so that the world would remember the treachery."
Jagtap also responded to recent remarks made by Maharashtra Congress leader Harshvardhan Sapkal, who compared Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to Aurangzeb.
Jagtap clarified, "What Sapkal expressed was not a personal affront. He was referring to the actions of the current administration in relation to Aurangzeb’s tyranny. He was making a comparison, but did not personally identify anyone."
Furthermore, Jagtap advocated that historical events, irrespective of their contentious nature, should be honored and preserved rather than erased for political motives or ideological reasons.
