Vishalgad Fort Anti-Encroachment Drive Sparks Violence in Maharashtra

The anti-encroachment drive at Vishalgad Fort in Maharashtra's Kolhapur district turned violent, with a mob throwing stones at police and damaging properties. This led to cases being registered against 500 people and the arrest of 21 others, according to police reports on Monday.

Violence Erupts During Anti-Encroachment Drive

On Sunday, violence broke out when right-wing activists, led by Maratha royal and former MP Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati, were stopped at the fort's base due to prohibitory orders. Police personnel stationed at the fort were injured as miscreants hurled stones and damaged public property. An official reported incidents of arson.

The Kolhapur district collector stated that 70 encroachments were removed from the medieval-era structure on Monday. The fort is significant in Maratha history, particularly during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The anti-encroachment drive resumed on Monday under tight security, with district administration officials present.

Legal Actions and Arrests

Police have registered four cases against over 500 individuals, including political leaders, and arrested 21 people. A search is ongoing for others involved. The drive was conducted between 11 am and 6 pm with revenue and PWD officials present. A large number of police personnel were deployed to prevent any untoward incidents, and the drive will continue on Tuesday.

Chhatrapati Sambhajiraje had demanded the removal of all encroachments regardless of the illegal occupants' caste or religion. Prohibitory orders under relevant sections of the Maharashtra Police Act 1951 have been issued from July 15 to July 29 at the fort.

Historical Significance of Vishalgad Fort

Vishalgad Fort holds profound significance in Maratha history. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj escaped to it after being besieged at Panhala Fort in 1660. In 1844, Vishalgad was ruled by Kolhapur State when a rebellion was led against a Brahmin regent installed by the British.

Meanwhile, the violence has prompted the Opposition to criticise the Shiv Sena-led Mahayuti government. They questioned whether "jungle raj" is prevailing in the state. Leader of the opposition in the state legislative council Ambadas Danve mentioned that Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati was also booked for leading the march to the fort.

"I had visited Vishalgad fort twice and seen encroachments. Sambhajiraje had only asked the state government to remove encroachments; however, instead of taking action, an offence was registered against him," Danve told reporters in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

Former AIMIM MP Imtiaz Jaleel criticised Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati for leading the march to the fort. "You could go to Delhi because Muslims had voted for you. We used to respect you but since you led the violent protest at Vishalgad fort, we wonder whether you are truly a descendant of Shahu Maharaj," he said.

Jaleel alleged that legal procedures were not followed during the anti-encroachment drive. He claimed that homes were vandalised and vehicles burnt down by miscreants. "Is jungle raj prevailing in Maharashtra?" he questioned.

The anti-encroachment drive at Vishalgad Fort has sparked significant controversy and political debate in Maharashtra. The situation remains tense as authorities continue their efforts to remove illegal structures while maintaining law and order.