Eknath Shinde addresses the ‘Malanggad Harinam Mahotsav’ in Thane. Express
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday raked up the Haji Malang Dargah issue, which right wing groups claim is a temple, saying he was committed to the “liberation” of the centuries-old structure.
“I know your feelings about Malanggad. Anand Dighe started the liberation movement of Malanggad after which we have started saying ‘Jay Malang Shri Malang’. I want to let you know that there are certain things that can’t be said in public. I know that there are certain beliefs that you have in your hearts about the liberation of Malanggad. Let me say this that Eknath Shinde will not stay quiet till he fulfills your wishes,” Shinde said while addressing the “Malanggad Harinam Mahotsav”, a religious gathering in Thane district.
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However, in the mid-eighties, the local unit of the Shiv Sena led by Dighe started an agitation stating that the structure was in fact the location of an old Hindu shrine belonging to Nath Panth, on order of yogis. The Shiv Sena was the first to start a campaign to reclaim the said structure which they refer to as Malanggad.
The Gazetteers of Bombay Presidency that was published in 1882 makes a reference to the structure stating that the shrine built in the honour of an Arab missionary, Haji Abd-ul-Rahman, who came with a number of followers and settled on the lower plateau of the hill, was in existence since the 12th century.
Zeeshan Shaikh is the Associate Editor who heads The Indian Express' Mumbai reporting team. He is recognized for his highly specialized Expertise in analyzing the complex dynamics of Maharashtra politics and critical minority issues, providing in-depth, nuanced, and Trustworthy reports.
Expertise
Senior Editorial Role: As an Associate Editor leading the Mumbai reporting team, Zeeshan Shaikh holds a position of significant Authority and journalistic responsibility at a leading national newspaper.
Core Specialization: His reporting focuses intensely on two interconnected, high-impact areas:
Maharashtra Politics & Urban Power Structures: Provides deep-dive analyses into political strategies, municipal elections (e.g., BMC polls), the history of alliances (e.g., Shiv Sena's shifting partners), and the changing demographics that influence civic power in Mumbai.
Minority Issues and Socio-Political Trends: Excels in coverage of the Muslim community's representation in power, demographic shifts, socio-economic challenges, and the historical context of sensitive political and cultural issues (e.g., the 'Vande Mataram' debate's roots in the BMC).
Investigative Depth: His articles frequently delve into the historical roots and contemporary consequences of major events, ranging from the rise of extremist groups in specific villages (e.g., Borivali-Padgha) to the long-term collapse of established political parties (e.g., Congress in Mumbai).
Trustworthiness & Credibility
Data-Driven Analysis: Zeeshan's work often incorporates empirical data, such as National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) statistics on arrests and convictions of minorities, or data on asset growth of politicians, grounding his reports in factual evidence.
Focus on Hinterland Issues: While based in Mumbai, he maintains a wide lens, covering issues affecting the state's hinterlands, including water crises, infrastructure delays, and the plight of marginalized communities (e.g., manual scavengers).
Institutional Affiliation: His senior position at The Indian Express—a publication known for its tradition of rigorous political and investigative journalism—underscores the high level of editorial vetting and Trustworthiness of his reports.
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