In a resurgence of Hindu sentiments, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde declared his commitment to resolving the longstanding dispute surrounding Kalyan’s Haji Malang Dargah. The site, claimed by both Hindus and Muslims, has been a source of contention, and the dargah trust has sought security for its upcoming “urs” on February 24.
Located on a hillock south of Kalyan, the dargah named after Sufi saint Haji Abdul Rahman Malang has been claimed as a temple of Hindu saint Shri Macchindra Nath by right-wing groups, including the Shiv Sena in Thane district. The dispute, pending in the courts, escalated in recent times with political leaders becoming involved.
CM Shinde, in a speech at the Malanggad Harinam Mahotsav, assured the community of his commitment to the “liberation” of Malanggad. The sentiment echoes the late Sena leader Anand Dighe’s initiative, with Shinde continuing the practice since Dighe’s passing in 2001.
In response to potential security concerns, Nasir Khan, chairman of the Pir Haji Malang Saheb Trust, has written to senior state officials, including Thane police commissioner, requesting security for the “urs” to maintain law and order, communal harmony, and address potential trouble during the event.
The CM’s statement is anticipated to influence the upcoming Lok Sabha poll campaign, particularly for Shinde’s son, Shrikant Shinde, who is an MP from Kalyan. The Kalyan Lok Sabha constituency has witnessed clashes between BJP and Shiv Sena leaders, and the recent developments are expected to shape the political landscape.
