The VHP and Bajrang Dal have announced statewide protests commencing March 17, coinciding with Shiv Jayanti celebrations, to press for the removal of the tomb. They plan to submit a memorandum to the state government, urging legal measures to dismantle the structure. Nitin Mahajan, a Bajrang Dal leader, warned, "If the government fails to act, the tomb will meet the same fate as the Babri Masjid."
This agitation follows a visit to the tomb by All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen leader Akbaruddin Owaisi, which sparked controversy and heightened tensions in the region. In response, security around the site has been significantly increased, with authorities implementing stringent measures to prevent any untoward incidents.
The tomb of Aurangzeb, who ruled from 1658 to 1707, is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India . Despite this, prominent figures within the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party have expressed support for its removal. Udayanraje Bhosale, a BJP Member of Parliament and descendant of Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, described Aurangzeb as a "thief and looter," advocating for the demolition of his grave.
Maharashtra's Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, acknowledged the sentiments of these groups but emphasized adherence to legal protocols, noting that the site is under ASI protection. He stated, "We all also want the same thing, but you need to do it within the framework of the law."
Not all political leaders support the demolition demand. Union Minister of Social Justice Ramdas Athawale termed the call for demolition as "extreme," suggesting that such actions would not serve any constructive purpose.