Yashwantgad in Redi (Sindhudurg, Maharashtra) vulnerable illegal construction!

• Excavations near the ramparts

• Fans of Shivaji Maharaj threaten to go on indefinite fast if offenders are not brought to book

Vengurla (Sindhudurg) : The historically significant Yashwantgad in Redi here, is included in the ‘UNESCO’ list and also a State Protected Monument. This fort has borne witness to the presence of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. However today, it is under threat due to unauthorized construction including excavations near the ramparts at the base of the fort. There is RCC construction in violation of the ‘C.R.Z.’ Act adjacent to the sea. Incensed fans of Shivaji Maharaj have warned that ‘this construction should be removed immediately, and legal action should be taken against the concerned after investigating the matter, otherwise they will go on an indefinite hunger strike from February 20’.

As per the information received, notices have been issued to the concerned to demolish the construction; but if the construction is demolished by giving such a notice, won’t the evidence of illegal construction be destroyed? This case has put all concerned departments in trouble, and legal action should be initiated against all of them.

Why are the relevant departments silent about construction near the fort and the beach? – Rajan Redkar, Chief Executive Officer, Bhartiya Bhrashtachar Nivaran Sanstha, Konkan Division

Rajan Redkar, Chief Executive Officer of Konkan Division of Bhartiya Bhrashtachar Nivaran Sanstha and a fan of Shivaji Maharaj, has raised the question, ‘Why are the relevant departments silent about construction near the fort and the beach?’ He further said,

1. For the last 3 to 4 years, the hill is being extensively excavated, with constructions coming up next to the fortifications of Yashwantgad. This is violating the C.R.Z. act and the Archeology Department’s laws.

2. Owners, contractors, builders, as well as Sarpanch, Village Development Officer, Shiroda Mandal Officer of Revenue Department, Talathi of Redi, Kotwal are responsible for this construction.

3. A complaint has been lodged on 23 January 2023 with the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, Collector of Sindhudurg and concerned departments along with the evidence regarding the construction. After the complaint, on 2nd February 2023, the concerned person was served with a notice about the unauthorized construction and the construction has been halted until the copy of the non-agricultural permission and permission of other relevant accounts are submitted.

4. Starting February 20th, fans of Shivaji Maharaj will undertake a fast unto death, if there is no action against those involved in this criminal act.

Yashwantgad was built by a Chalukya king in 610!

A Chalukya king built Yashwantgad in Redi circa 610 AD. Later this fort was captured by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Many local and foreign tourists visit this fort. Shiv Jayanti is celebrated on a grand scale at this fort. This fort is also regularly cleaned by fans of Shivaji Maharaj. But the unauthorized construction in the fort area, poses an imminent danger to the fortifications which may collapse. While the government is trying to evict the illegal occupiers in forts, there is construction is going on in violation of the rules near Yashwantgad.

Editorial note

The forts bear witness to the ancient history of India! While there is a need to preserve and conserve them, unauthorized constructions are harming them. Hindus expect that the government pays immediate attention to this and initiates strict action against those who are responsible for it!

Source : Sanatan Prabhat