Boards stating ‘This fort belongs to Hindus; Muslims are not allowed entry here’ put up at Sinhagad Fort

Pune (Maharashtra) – On 14th July, boards bearing the message, “This fort belongs to Hindus; Muslims are not allowed entry here”, were found affixed to an iron signboard near the parking area close to the entrance of Sinhagad Fort. The words “By order” were also written below the message.

The Forest Department stated that miscreants had deliberately written the words “By order” beneath the message to make it appear as though it was an official Government directive. The Department immediately removed the boards. No complaint has yet been filed in the matter; however, the Police have begun searching for the unidentified individuals responsible. They are also examining CCTV footage from the roads leading to the fort.

Editorial Perspective

After reading such boards, seculars are likely to raise an outcry claiming that “Muslims are being persecuted”. However, will the Government, the administration and the Police examine why such boards came to be put up in the first place? Through Land Jihad, fanatic Muslims have encroached upon hundreds of forts in Maharashtra. Such boards reflect the resentment prevailing among the public.