Two arrested for offering ‘Gangajal’ at Taj Mahal; video goes viral

Two men associated with the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha were arrested at the Taj Mahal for allegedly offering 'Gangajal' on the premises. The incident, which occurred on Saturday during the Sawan month, was captured in a video that has since gone viral. The men claimed they considered the Taj Mahal to be ‘TejoMahalay,’ a Shiva temple.

A video clip shows one of the accused pouring water from a plastic bottle on a closed staircase leading to the basement of the Taj Mahal, which houses the original graves of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. The Tajganj Police confirmed the arrest, stating the men were apprehended by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) tasked with securing the monument.

The accused argued that the Taj Mahal is a Shiva temple and that the holy water was poured onto a sticker displaying the Om symbol. The men had entered the premises as tourists, purchasing tickets and bringing in water bottles, which is permitted.

Efforts to rename the Taj Mahal and conduct religious rituals within its premises have been ongoing. A court case is currently in progress locally, seeking permission for such offerings. The month of Sawan is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and groups aligned with Hindutva ideology often refer to the Taj Mahal as ‘TejoMahalay.’

Agra city deputy commissioner of police, Suraj Rai, stated that the two men are currently in custody at the Taj Ganj police station, and an investigation is underway.

In the past, similar incidents have occurred. Right-wing activists have attempted to recite the 'Shiv Chalisa' within the Taj Mahal complex during 'Mahashivratri.' Several years ago, members of the Hindu Jagaran Manch, including its district president Gaurav Thakur, were arrested for waving saffron flags inside the monument.