UP, Maha step up efforts to develop Shivaji-linked sites in Agra
The administration said the govt has acquired the property and that the land is currently under its control. Officials said discussions were also underway with families currently residing at the site regarding their rehabilitation and resettlement. DM Bansal said, “Institutional coordination between the two state govts would be necessary to develop the site as a world-class heritage and tourism destination. UP minister Upadhyay said the site’s presentation should cover Shivaji Maharaj’s stay in Agra, Sambhaji Maharaj, Mirza Raja Jai Singh and important episodes from Maratha history. He said only authentic historical facts should be incorporated into the presentation.
The meeting was attended by UP higher education minister Yogendra Upadhyay, Maharashtra cabinet ministers Bharat Sheth Gogawale and Jaykumar Rawal, and Agra DM Manish Bansal. At the meeting, the participants discussed a joint action plan covering conservation, infrastructure development and tourism facilities at sites linked to Shivaji Maharaj. A key proposal is the construction of a grand memorial dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj at Kothi Meena Bazaar. As various cases related to the property are pending before courts, provisions have been made to deposit the compensation for the acquisition in court.