Fadnavis warns of strict motion after namaz video sparks Shaniwar Wada row in Pune

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday (October 22, 2025) stated authorities will act towards anybody violating the regulation, after an FIR was registered towards three unidentified girls for allegedly providing namaz contained in the premises of Shaniwar Wada, a protected monument in Pune. 

“We will take motion towards anybody who does something with out permission,” Mr. Fadnavis asserted, following an argument triggered by a viral video of the incident. The clip sparked protests from BJP MP Medha Kulkarni and members of right-wing outfits, who staged demonstrations and carried out ‘purification rituals’ on the website on Sunday. Police have since stepped up safety across the fort. 

According to Pune City Police, the case was filed below the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Rules, 1959, which prohibit actions that violate restrictions at heritage websites.  

According to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, and its Rules of 1959 prohibit any non secular exercise, development, or filming inside protected monuments with out prior permission. The regulation additionally defines prohibited areas inside 100 metres and controlled areas inside 200 metres of such websites. Violations can appeal to fines and imprisonment below the Act.   

The incident reportedly occurred round 1:45 p.m. on Saturday, after which an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officer lodged a proper grievance at Vishrambaug Police Station. “We have invoked the related part of the AMASR Rules, which gives for penalties associated to prohibited actions inside protected monuments,” a senior police officer stated. 

Built in 1732 by Peshwa Bajirao I, Shaniwar Wada served because the seat of the Maratha Empire’s Peshwas. Known for its architectural grandeur mixing Mughal and Marathi kinds, the fort was gutted by hearth in 1828. Its ruins stay a serious heritage website below ASI safety and a cultural landmark in Pune. 

Shiv Sena chief Shaina NC backed the FIR, stressing that the problem shouldn’t be communalised. “If anybody violates restrictions relevant to a protected monument, motion must be taken. This isn’t about Hindu versus Muslim; it’s about respecting ASI norms. Just as nobody recites Hanuman Chalisa at Haji Ali Dargah out of respect for religion, we should keep concord. Hindus and Muslims have at all times coexisted peacefully,” she stated.   

Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane additionally weighed in, calling Shaniwar Wada “a logo of Hindu valour and near the neighborhood’s coronary heart.” He questioned whether or not Muslims would settle for Hindus chanting Hanuman Chalisa at Haji Ali, and stated prayers needs to be provided solely at designated locations. “If Hindu employees raised their voice, then it’s right,” he stated.