Raj Hails World Heritage Status for Shivaji's Forts, Calls for Removal of Encroachments

In a landmark decision for India’s cultural heritage, UNESCO has granted World Heritage Site status to twelve of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s historic forts across Maharashtra. The announcement, made on July 23, 2025, has been met with widespread celebration, with Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis hailing it as a “tribute to Maratha pride.” However, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has seized the moment to demand the immediate removal of encroachments around these forts, calling for stricter preservation efforts.

The newly designated forts—including Raigad, Sindhudurg, Pratapgad, and Shivneri—are now part of UNESCO’s prestigious list, joining global landmarks like the Great Wall of China and the Pyramids of Giza. This recognition not only boosts Maharashtra’s tourism potential but also raises urgent questions about illegal constructions, neglect, and commercialization threatening these ancient structures.

In this blog, we explore:
✔ The significance of UNESCO’s recognition
✔ Raj Thackeray’s demands for fort conservation
✔ Challenges in preserving Shivaji’s legacy

UNESCO’s World Heritage Tag: Which Forts Made the Cut?

The 12 forts included in UNESCO’s list are:

Raigad Fort – Shivaji’s coronation site and capital.
Sindhudurg Fort – Built to guard Maharashtra’s coastline.
Pratapgad Fort – Site of the historic Battle of Pratapgad.
Shivneri Fort – Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj.
Rajgad Fort – Early capital of the Maratha Empire.
Torna Fort – First fort captured by Shivaji.
Lohagad Fort – Key trade route guardian.
Visapur Fort – Twin fort of Lohagad.
Panhala Fort – Strategic hill fortress.
Sinhagad Fort – Witness to legendary battles.
Murud-Janjira Fort – Unconquered sea fort.
Vijaydurg Fort – Naval stronghold.

UNESCO praised these forts for their “outstanding military architecture, historical significance, and cultural value.”

Raj Thackeray’s Demands: “Remove Encroachments Now!”

While politicians across parties welcomed UNESCO’s decision, Raj Thackeray took a more aggressive stance, stating:

“This is a proud moment, but these forts are being suffocated by illegal shops, slums, and hotels. The government must clear all encroachments within 3 months and restore the forts’ dignity.”

Key Concerns Raised by Thackeray:

Illegal constructions within 500 meters of fort boundaries.
Commercialization (e.g., loud resorts near Shivneri Fort).
Neglect of archaeological integrity (graffiti, garbage).

He also demanded:
✔ Strict enforcement of no-construction zones around forts.
✔ A special task force for fort preservation.
✔ Higher penalties for vandalism.

Preservation Challenges: What’s at Stake?

1. Encroachment Menace

Raigad Fort: Over 200 illegal stalls crowd the base.
Sinhagad Fort: Unauthorized hotels disrupt the scenic view.

2. Environmental Damage

Plastic waste and deforestation near forts.
Noise pollution from tourist vehicles.

3. Structural Decay

Lack of restoration funds for lesser-known forts like Torna.
Rainwater erosion damaging ancient walls.

Solutions & Way Forward

1. Immediate Demolition Drives

Pune Municipal Corporation has pledged to clear 150+ illegal structures near Sinhagad by August 2025.

2. Eco-Tourism Models

Learn from global examples (e.g., Japan’s Himeji Castle preservation).
Controlled visitor limits to reduce footfall damage.

3. Public Awareness Campaigns

“Save Our Forts” initiatives in schools and colleges.
Volunteer clean-up drives (MNS plans one at Pratapgad on August 15).

Global Recognition, Local Responsibility

UNESCO’s tag brings international funding and tourism, but Maharashtra must act swiftly to:
Enforce heritage laws strictly.
Balance tourism with conservation.
Involve local communities in preservation.

Final Verdict: A Wake-Up Call for Maharashtra

While the World Heritage status is a triumph, Raj Thackeray’s warnings highlight an urgent need for action. These forts are not just stone and mortar—they’re living symbols of Maratha valor. Protecting them is a duty to history and future generations.

Key Dates:

UNESCO Announcement: July 23, 2025
MNS Clean-Up Drive: August 15, 2025

What do YOU think? Should encroachments near forts be bulldozed? Comment below!

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