Why in news
Vishalgad Fort was Declared a "protected monument" by the Maharashtra State government in January 1999.
Encroachment Issue: A survey in 2021 categorized 21 houses belonging to Bhosalewadis as legitimate, while the remaining 158 properties, primarily around a dargah, were deemed encroachments.
Recent Incident: On July 14, a mob, allegedly from right-wing Hindu organizations, forcibly removed government-declared encroachments in and around the fort.
Vishalgad, also known as Vishalgarh, Khelna, or Khilna is formerly a jagir under the Maratha Empire.
Later became part of the Deccan States Agency during British Raj.
Vishalgad Fort's (Maharashtra) History
Fort existed for a long time, previously owned by the Shirke clan during Bahmani rule.
Known as Khelna during that period.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj sought refuge here after Panhala siege in 1660.
Played a crucial role in the 1844 rebellion against British regent Daji Krishna Pandit.
Rebellion started with soldiers occupying hill forts like Panhala and Vishalgad.
Reasons for Rebellion
British imposed land tax reforms causing discontent.
Kolhapur, previously neutral in Anglo-Maratha Wars, joined the rebellion.
COMMENTS