Showdown in Pune: BJP 'Purifies' Maratha Fort After Namaz Offered, Sparks Political Firestorm

A political firestorm has erupted in Pune over Namaz being offered inside the historic Shaniwar Wada fort, with key figures like BJP MP Medha Kulkarni leading the charge. Reacting to the incident, Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane asked, 'Will you be fine with Hindus going to Haji Ali and chanting Hanuman Chalisa?'. The controversy began after a video of women offering prayers at the heritage site went viral, prompting Kulkarni and other Hindu groups to conduct a 'purification' ritual using cow urine. The move drew sharp criticism from opposition parties and even from the BJP's political ally, the Ajit Pawar-led NCP, which accused the MP of trying to disturb social harmony. Samajwadi Party leader Abu Azmi also condemned the BJP's actions. The incident has led to increased police security at the fort, which is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.