• Maharashtra News: A new controversy has erupted in Mumbai’s Sanjay Gandhi National Park after the Forest Department removed a shrine allegedly built illegally. Following this action, a cycle of accusations and counter-accusations has begun by the local Muslim community residing in the area, keeping the atmosphere tense. The local Muslim community claims the demolished shrine was not a new structure but was over 40 years old. They say this shrine was built in memory of ‘Sailani Baba’ and a procession has been held there every year.

    People from the community say that permission for this procession has been sought from the police from time to time. Therefore, calling this shrine a structure built just a week ago is completely wrong and misleading. On the other hand, some Hindu organizations had termed this construction an encroachment on government land, calling it ‘land jihad’ and demanding immediate action from the administration. Following pressure from these organizations, a Forest Department team reached the spot late Tuesday night and removed the shrine. According to officials, this structure was built illegally on Forest Department land, which is why the removal action was taken.

    Allegations from the Muslim Side

    Regarding the matter, the Muslim side alleges that this action was not carried out by the Forest Department team but by people associated with some Hindu organizations. They say action should be taken against those who carried out this demolition because it could inflame religious sentiments. Meanwhile, in a conversation, concerned officials confirmed that the entire action was carried out on the instructions and in the presence of the Forest Department.

    Temple Declared Illegal

    Some representatives of the Muslim community have also acknowledged that the shrine was built illegally, but they say a temple also exists in the same area, which they are declaring illegal. Their argument is that if the administration is taking action against encroachment, then justice should be equal for all. For now, the action to remove the shrine in the case of encroachment on government land is complete, but following this incident, a tense atmosphere prevails in the entire area and the administration is keeping a watch on the situation.

    Sanjay Gandhi National Park

    Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a protected urban forest reserve located in Mumbai, India, notable for being one of the world’s largest national parks within a city’s limits. Historically, the area has ancient roots, containing the Kanheri Caves—a complex of Buddhist rock-cut monuments dating from the 1st century BCE to the 10th century CE. Today, it serves as a vital green lung for Mumbai, offering biodiversity, recreational space, and a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

    Sailani Baba shrine

    The Sailani Baba shrine, located in the town of Sailani in the Indian state of Maharashtra, is a revered Sufi dargah (tomb) dedicated to the 14th-century saint Hazrat Syed Sadullah Shah Sailani. He is believed to have been a companion of the famous Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya and is credited with spreading Islam in the region. Today, the shrine is a significant pilgrimage site for people of various faiths, known for its annual Urs festival and as a symbol of communal harmony.