Kolhapur: Anti encroachment drive to continue, Devendra Fadnavis
Kolhapur: Anti encroachment drive to continue, Devendra Fadnavis
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis affirmed on Tuesday that the anti-encroachment drive at Vishalgad Fort in Kolhapur district will proceed despite the recent violence. Fadnavis, who also holds the home portfolio, emphasized that the drive will be conducted in accordance with government guidelines while maintaining peace in the region.
The drive turned violent on Sunday when a mob hurled stones at police personnel and damaged properties, resulting in the arrest of 21 individuals. “Encroachments must be removed as per the wishes of Shiv Bhakts, even as the drive against unauthorized structures will be carried out legally by following laid-down procedures,” Fadnavis stated. Earlier in the day, the Kolhapur district administration removed 80 encroachments from Vishalgad Fort amid heavy police presence.
Fadnavis reiterated the state government’s commitment to peace and stability in the district. “Our priority is to ensure that peace prevails. The time has also come for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) to show whether or not it supports those who have encroached upon Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s history,” he remarked.
The violence on Sunday was exacerbated by right-wing activists led by Maratha royal and former MP Sambhaji Raje Chhatrapati, who were intercepted at the base of the fort due to prohibitory orders. On Tuesday, MVA leaders, including Kolhapur MP Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj and MLA Satej Patil, visited Vishalgad. “I regret I could not protect you from Sunday’s violence. However, we will ensure that you receive proper treatment,” Shahu Maharaj assured the locals.
Prohibitory orders have been imposed in the district from July 15 to 20 to prevent further unrest. The district administration began removing encroachments after receiving ‘in principle approval’ to demolish structures not covered under a stay order.
Vishalgad Fort, located in the Shahuwadi taluka, has become a flashpoint between the district administration and Hindutva forces. The fort is historically significant as the place where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj sought refuge after escaping from Panhala Fort in 1660. Spread over 1,130 meters and located at a height of 3,500 feet above sea level, Vishalgad Fort continues to hold immense historical and cultural importance.
