Residents question why the government-built Tipu Tower remains in disrepair despite repeated spending claims and stalled renovation works
MALEGAON – A fresh political dispute has broken out in Maharashtra’s Malegaon after a framed photograph of Tipu Sultan was placed in the office of Deputy Mayor Shan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed. The development has drawn objections from members of the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) and the BJP, even as questions resurface over the poor condition of the Tipu Sultan Tower built by the Municipal Corporation at Musharraf Chowk.
The controversy began on Friday (13 February) when visitors noticed the photograph of Tipu Sultan, displayed on the wall of the Deputy Mayor’s office. According to Shan-e-Hind, the framed portrait was presented to him as a gift by several corporators.
Speaking to the media, Shan-e-Hind defended the decision. He said, “Some corporators gifted me this frame for my office. Tipu Sultan is remembered in history for resisting British rule. The Maharashtra government itself has mentioned in its affidavit before the Bombay High Court that Tipu sacrificed his life in the freedom struggle.”
He added, “If the government recognises his birth anniversary in its gazette, on what basis are people objecting to his photograph? This is not against any rule.”
Soon after the photograph was displayed, Shiv Sena (Shinde) members, led by former Deputy Mayor and elected corporator Nilesh Ahir, went to meet Municipal Commissioner Ravinder Jadhav to object.
According to party members, government offices are allowed to display only approved portraits. The BJP also voiced opposition, stating that there is a government list of 26 national personalities whose photographs may be displayed in official offices.
A BJP leader said, “As per government permission, there are 26 personalities — including national leaders and freedom fighters — whose photo frames can be placed in government offices. Dr APJ Abdul Kalam’s photo is on that list. We have no objection to his photograph. But putting up Tipu Sultan’s photo is being done for political reasons.”
He further claimed, “This move can create tension between communities. Politics should not be played in government offices.”
During their protest, BJP leaders reportedly carried a framed picture showing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj attacking Afzal Khan, underlining their own historical reference.
Shan-e-Hind rejected the allegations that the portrait was an attempt to create division. She said, “There is nothing wrong in respecting a historical figure who fought the British. Those who are opposing this are trying to create unnecessary controversy.”
She also questioned why certain figures are accepted without objection while others are opposed. “History should not be selective,” he said. “If someone gave his life fighting colonial rule, he deserves to be remembered.”
Local Muslim residents expressed support for the Deputy Mayor. One resident near Musharraf Chowk said, “Tipu Sultan is regarded by many as a freedom fighter. Why should his photograph create fear? There are bigger issues in the city that need attention.”
Another resident said, “Instead of bickering over a photo, leaders should look at the condition of the Tipu Tower. Public money was spent, but nothing is visible on the ground.”
Residents say that renovation and decoration work, which began several years ago, was suddenly stopped. The structure is in a dilapidated condition now.
During a visit to the site, locals said that when repair work had started, several political leaders were often seen near the tower, claiming credit for the project.
One shopkeeper said, “When the renovation began, many leaders came here for photo ops and announcements. Contractors would sit here as if the money was coming from their own pockets. Then the work stopped, and everyone disappeared.”
Another resident questioned, “How many times were funds sanctioned for this tower? How much money was withdrawn from the Municipal Corporation and the Maharashtra government in its name? No clear answer has been given.”
The stalled work has led to suspicion among residents that public funds may have been used without proper completion of the project. People are demanding transparency regarding the expenditure.
Attempts were made to contact officials for clarification and several political leaders did not respond to calls.
The Municipal Corporation has not yet issued a formal statement on either the photograph controversy or the status of the tower’s renovation.
Malegaon has witnessed political disagreements in the past, but residents say daily civic problems are more pressing. Roads, sanitation, and unfinished public works remain key concerns.
A senior citizen in the area said, “Arguments over portraits will not solve the problems of the city. If leaders respect history, they should also respect public money.”
For many Muslims in Malegaon, Tipu Sultan is remembered as a ruler who resisted British expansion and died in battlefield in 1799. For his supporters, displaying his image is an act of historical recognition. For his critics, it is seen as political messaging.
As the debate continues, the unanswered questions about the Tipu Tower’s stalled renovation and alleged expenditure remain at the centre of public concern.
The coming days are likely to see further statements from political parties, but for now, the photograph in the Deputy Mayor’s office has become a symbol of a wider political and social divide in the city.
