Nashik: The Nashik Rural Police have recently apprehended two individuals in separate incidents for allegedly posting content on social media that was perceived as glorifying Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. These incidents have sparked tension in the area, leading to public demonstrations and calls for action against the individuals involved.
In the first incident, Shoaib Maniyar, a resident of Ghoti in Nashik district, posted a controversial message on Facebook, which quickly attracted attention and ignited a heated response from local residents. The post was accused of causing hurt to religious sentiments, resulting in a gathering of concerned individuals outside a local police station, demanding that action be taken against Maniyar. As a result, a case was registered against him, and he was subsequently taken into police custody.
Similarly, in Sinnar, another town in Nashik district, Salim Kazi, a 20-year-old individual, found himself under arrest after sharing a short video on his social media account, highlighting aspects of Aurangzeb's reign. The video caught the attention of local leaders from the Bajrang Dal, a right-wing organization, who registered a complaint against Kazi, ultimately leading to his arrest by the authorities.
In a related incident, a memorial dedicated to Tipu Sultan, located in Dhule district, faced opposition from right-wing activists in the area. Members of the Dhule Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) objected to the construction of the memorial and lodged a complaint with local authorities, citing its illegality and lack of necessary permissions.
Consequently, the Dhule Municipal Corporation officials ordered the demolition of the structure, which took place on Friday morning. It was reported that the demolition was carried out voluntarily by the individuals responsible for its construction.
These incidents reflect the growing sensitivity surrounding historical figures and events, particularly those from the Mughal era.