UNESCO has declared 12 historical forts of Shivaji Maharaj as World Heritage Sites. Raj Thackeray has urged the government to protect these sites and remove illegal constructions.
Maharashtra: UNESCO has recognized 12 historical forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as World Heritage Sites. Raj Thackeray, expressing his delight, has advised the Maharashtra government to take responsibility for the conservation of these forts. He has warned that this status could be revoked if the prescribed standards are not followed.
Global Recognition for Shivaji Maharaj's Forts
Twelve historical forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj have been included in UNESCO's World Heritage List. This decision is a matter of pride not only for Maharashtra but for the whole of India. Out of the 12 forts included in the list, 11 are located in Maharashtra, while one fort is located in the Gingee region of Tamil Nadu.
These forts include prominent forts like Raigad, Pratapgarh, Sindhudurg, Rajgad, Torna, Purandar, Lohgad, Salota, Subhangad, Panhala, and Vishalgad. Their historical significance and architecture both reflect India's glorious heritage.
Raj Thackeray's Reaction
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has welcomed UNESCO's decision. He shared a detailed post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) in which he called this historic achievement a matter of pride for Marathi identity.
Raj Thackeray wrote that this is an opportunity to show the world how far the idea of Swaraj of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has reached. He also emphasized how deep and old the historical ties between two different languages and cultures like Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu have been.
Compliance with UNESCO Standards is Essential
Raj Thackeray has warned the government that with this recognition come several strict standards, which must be adhered to. If the government fails to comply with these rules, the status could be revoked. He cited the example of the 'Arabian Oryx Sanctuary' of Oman and the 'Dresden Valley' of Germany, whose UNESCO status was revoked.
State Government Needs to Take Responsibility
Raj Thackeray has appealed to the state government not to rely solely on international aid for the conservation of these forts but to ensure additional funds from the budget for the maintenance of these sites.
He said that until now, all governments have neglected these forts, leading to their poor condition. Many forts have not been repaired, nor have adequate facilities been provided for tourists.
Demand for Removal of Illegal Constructions
Raj Thackeray also mentioned in his post that the government should first remove all illegal constructions and encroachments from these forts. He clearly stated that encroachment, regardless of who did it, must be removed.
According to him, this is not just a matter of cultural identity but also an opportunity to develop these sites from a tourism perspective and give a new direction to the state's economy.
Tourism and Economic Development Potential
Raj Thackeray emphasized that if Maharashtra's forts, sea shores, and historical sites are developed with modern infrastructure and facilities, it can become a great economic opportunity for the state. Foreign tourists will come to see the grandeur of these sites, which will boost the tourism industry and also create local employment.
