ASI is taking all necessary steps to protect Aurangzeb's tomb in Maharashtra, the central government told the Parliament

The Centre on Thursday told Parliament that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is taking steps to protect Aurangzeb's tomb in Maharashtra from any threat. Aurangzeb's tomb has triggered a major controversy with several right-wing groups and politicians from the ruling coalition in Maharashtra demanding its removal. Kerala IUML MP Abdul Wahab asked the Centre if there was a threat of demolition of the tomb from extremist groups and if yes, what was the ASI doing to protect the monument?

In his response, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Shekhawat said the ASI is continuously taking proactive steps in coordination with the district administration to "minimise any damage" to the protected monument.

"Besides, 12-foot metal sheets have been installed around the tomb, concertina wire has been put on the surrounding walls to prevent encroachers, private security personnel have been deployed besides multi-tasking staff and inspections are being carried out at regular intervals by ASI officials," he added.

Aurangzeb's tomb at Khuldabad in Aurangabad district is a protected monument under the jurisdiction of the Aurangabad circle of the ASI. Recently, former RSS general secretary and senior functionary Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi called the controversy over the tomb "unnecessary".

Joshi emphasised that Hindu Maratha kings like Shivaji were so large-hearted that they even built tombs for their dead rivals. Describing the king's greatness as a true reflection of Hindutva's generosity, he said the Mughal emperor's tomb should be left untouched.

A week ago, RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, while speaking to the media after the All India Representative Assembly (ABPS), had expressed similar sentiments, though his words were different.

He said the 'invader' (Aurangzeb) is no longer relevant to India, but Indians should introspect. RSS spokesperson Sunil Ambekar also termed the Aurangzeb issue 'irrelevant'.

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