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This is an archive article published on November 1, 2015

Shiv Sena targets BJP, says temples under threat in Modi-Fadnavis regime

Things that did not take place in the Congress rule are happening under Modi-Fadnavis’s rule. This is the misfortune of Hindus

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Striking a belligerent note on Hindutva, the Shiv Sena has claimed that temples are under threat in the Modi-Fadnavis government.

“Things that did not take place in the Congress rule are happening under Modi-Fadnavis’s rule. This is the misfortune of Hindus. People are asking if Aurangzeb has risen from his tomb to break the temples of Hindus. Those behind these demolitions will have to answer this question,” an editorial in party mouth piece Saamana said.

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The editorial follows an incident on Thursday in which Shiv Sena MP from Aurangabad, Chandrakant Khaire, roughed up a Tehsildar calling him a “progeny of Aurangzeb” acting against the interests of Hindus. The Tehsildar is heading a demolition drive in Waluj, a distant suburb of Aurangabad. It included demolition of illegal temples.

“The people of Sambhajinagar (name given to Aurangabad by the Sena) question whether this country and state are governed by those who adhere to Hindutva or is under Mughal rule. Has Aurangzeb found life once again in Sambhajinagar. This is the question Hindus are asking,” the edit added.
Khaire defended his action and claimed the official was “corrupt” and a “progeny of Aurangzeb”.
“He is the progeny of Aurangzeb. He is breaking temples of Hindus which no one has dared to do so in this city. There has been an order to break a Masjid at Kranti Chowk but no one touches it,” Shiv Sena MP Khaire said.

He said he would behave the same way with officials who target religious places of Hindus.

The edit defended Khaire and suggested that under the present dispensation, Hindu places of worship were not being respected.
“Hindus are asking whether they got this government elected only to see temples being broken. Have we got Modi elected in Centre and Fadanvis in Maharashtra so that your places of worship get attacked,” the edit says.

The hostility of the Sena is being linked to attempts of the party to portray itself as the chief proponent of Hindutva cause in the state. The Shiv Sena, which shares an uneasy alliance with the BJP in Maharashtra, is trying to step out from the shadows of its larger ally.

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. He tweets @zeeshansahafi ... Read More

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