In March 2025, which Indian state experienced violent clashes resulting in multiple injuries over demands to remove the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb?​

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) Maharashtra

• In March 2025, Nagpur, a city in Maharashtra, witnessed violent clashes following demands by right-wing Hindu groups, including the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, to remove the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.

• The unrest began after protesters burned an effigy of Aurangzeb and chanted slogans calling for the tomb's removal. The situation escalated when rumors spread that a religious item, possibly a Quranic chadar, had been desecrated during the demonstration.

• This led to violent confrontations between Hindu and Muslim groups, resulting in injuries to over 30 individuals, including police officers, and significant property damage.

• In response, authorities imposed a curfew in several areas of Nagpur to restore order and prevent further violence.

• The controversy surrounding Aurangzeb's tomb has been a recurring issue in Maharashtra, often resurfacing during periods of heightened communal tensions.

Information Booster:

• Aurangzeb's Tomb: Located in Khuldabad, near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, Aurangzeb's tomb is notably unmarked, reflecting his wish for a simple burial. It lies within the complex of the dargah (shrine) of Sheikh Zainuddin, a Sufi saint who was also his spiritual guide.

• Historical Context: Aurangzeb ruled the Mughal Empire from 1658 to 1707. His reign is viewed by many as a period of religious orthodoxy and expansion of Islamic influence, which has been a point of contention in Indian historical narratives.

• Controversies: The demand to remove his tomb is part of broader debates over his legacy, with some viewing him as a symbol of oppression, while others argue that such perceptions are based on colonial-era narratives.

• Political Implications: The issue has been politicized, with various groups using it to mobilize support and assert ideological positions. The release of the film "Chhaava," depicting Maratha resistance against Aurangzeb, further intensified the debate.

• Legal Status: The tomb is protected as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, making any alterations or demolition legally prohibited.