RTI Exposes Huge Funding for Aurangzeb’s Tomb While Shivaji’s Temple Gets Neglected

The funding of Aurangzeb’s tomb has sparked a major controversy in India. A recent RTI (Right to Information) revelation has exposed a stark contrast in government spending—while the tomb of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb receives lakhs of rupees annually, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s temple is allocated a mere ₹250 per month.

Govt Spends Lakhs on Aurangzeb’s Tomb

According to the RTI report, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) spends significant amounts on the maintenance and upkeep of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Maharashtra.

• ₹2,55,160 was spent in 2021-22
• ₹2,00,636 was spent in 2022-23
• Total expenditure in recent years has crossed ₹6.50 lakh

Neglect of Shivaji Maharaj’s Temple Sparks Outrage

In contrast, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj temple receives only ₹250 per month from the government. This huge disparity has led to strong criticism from the Hindu Janajagruti Organization, which has accused the government of discrimination against Hindu heritage sites.

Demand to Stop Funding Aurangzeb’s Tomb

The Hindu Janajagruti Organization has demanded an immediate halt to government funding for Aurangzeb’s tomb and called for increased support for Shivaji Maharaj’s temple. The controversy has intensified, with political parties now weighing in on the matter.

Conclusion

This RTI disclosure raises critical questions about government priorities in funding historical monuments. Should taxpayers’ money be used to maintain the tomb of a ruler known for his brutal policies, while a symbol of Hindu pride like Shivaji Maharaj’s temple gets minimal support? The debate is now gaining momentum across the country.