VHP demands ban on worship at Aurangzeb's Nagpur tomb

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) is opposing the worship of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb at his tomb in Nagpur. They claim that such acts are disrespectful to Indian values and culture. Alok Kumar, the VHP's international president, called Aurangzeb a "tyrant" who harmed his family and attacked Indian traditions. The Archaeological Survey of India has set up a temporary structure around the tomb. Meanwhile, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has questioned Aurangzeb's relevance today. The VHP is demanding that the site be treated only as a monument and that worship or offerings, like ‘chadar’, be banned. Kumar highlighted Aurangzeb's violent past, stating he imprisoned his father and killed his brother. He believes that glorifying a figure like Aurangzeb contradicts the values of Indian civilization. He argues that anyone who worships there would adopt those negative values, which the VHP cannot accept. The VHP insists their concerns are well-founded and aim to promote societal values. Kumar emphasized that public monuments should reflect uplifting sentiments for the community.