'Shiva puja' performed at ASI-protected Mehtab Bagh near Taj Mahal
The Archaeological Survey of India has filed a police complaint after individuals performed unauthorized religious rituals at the protected Mehtab Bagh site near the Taj Mahal. The group claimed the monument was originally a Hindu temple, sparking concerns over the preservation and security of the site.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing cultural and religious tensions in India regarding the historical ownership and identity of protected national monuments.
AGRA: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has lodged a police complaint after a group of unidentified men entered the ASI-protected Mehtab Bagh complex, located north of the Taj Mahal across Yamuna river, and performed religious rituals on the premises.According to officials, the men worshipped Lord Shiva, offered Gangajal, performed aarti and displayed a religious flag while reiterating claims that the Taj Mahal was originally a Shiva temple named 'Tejo Mahalaya'.The incident came to light after videos depicting the ritual began circulating widely across social media platforms. ACP(Chatta circle) Shweta Verma said a preliminary inquiry indicated that up to three people associated with Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha may have been involved in the incident.Following a complaint by ASI senior conservation assistant Ankit Namdev, an FIR was registered at Etmadduala police station.
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