Gopichand Padalkar Tears Encroachment Notices on Raigad Fort

BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar has launched a scathing attack on the Archaeological Department over notices issued to several families from the Dhangar community, accusing them of encroachment on Raigad Fort. In a strong and symbolic gesture, Padalkar tore the notices publicly, demanding their immediate withdrawal.

BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar has launched a scathing attack on the Archaeological Department over notices issued to several families from the Dhangar community, accusing them of encroachment on Raigad Fort. In a strong and symbolic gesture, Padalkar tore the notices publicly, demanding their immediate withdrawal.

Speaking to the media, Padalkar said, “These notices must be withdrawn immediately. If you’re an officer of the Archaeological Department, you should know the historical role of the Dhangar community on Raigad Fort. From the time of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to the present, this community has selflessly served the fort.”

"Dhangar Community Served Raigad for 300 Years"

Padalkar emphasized the Dhangar community’s longstanding contribution, stating, “For over 300 years, the Dhangar brothers have been serving Raigad. They were among the Athara Pagdi castes who played a critical role in the establishment of Swarajya. They have guided tourists with honesty and dedication. Notably, they voluntarily handed over Rs 17 crore found during excavations to the government—a gesture of utmost integrity.”

He alleged that the notices may have been issued under political pressure or mischief. “There are only a few houses belonging to the Dhangar community. Evicting them is a grave injustice,” he asserted.

Assures Support, Promises Permanent Housing

Taking full responsibility for the issue, Padalkar declared, “I will ensure that these families get permanent housing and electricity connections. I have already discussed this matter with Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and will visit Raigad in two days to meet with the Dhangar families.”

Stands by the Government on Farmers' Issues

Addressing parallel concerns raised by Prahar Janshakti Party leader Bacchu Kadu regarding farmers, Padalkar said, “While farmers’ issues are important, between 2014 and 2019, the Fadnavis-led government allocated ₹49,000 crore for farmers. Relief funds were brought from the Centre for drought-hit areas, and schemes like electricity bill waivers, solar pumps, well-building, and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana houses were implemented.”

He added that the government has taken multiple revolutionary decisions for farmers and urged Bacchu Kadu to have faith in the system.

Sharp Attack on Jayant Patil

Padalkar also launched a direct attack on NCP state president Jayant Patil. “Jayantrao Patil is a leader fleeing from responsibility. Despite being a minister for years, he hasn’t managed to bring a single major project to his district. The wheel of his political career hasn’t just punctured—the tire itself has burst. He won’t survive in the political arena anymore.”

Final Word: “Will Not Tolerate Injustice”

Concluding with a strong emotional note, Padalkar said, “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj built Swarajya by uniting all castes under the Athara Pagdi banner. The Dhangar community continued to serve Raigad even after his death. Today, they are being treated unfairly. I will never tolerate this injustice.”

Lokshahi English News
english.lokshahi.com