Pune Police Investigate Controversial Poster Displayed At Sinhagad Fort

Pune Rural Police have launched an investigation after a controversial poster claiming that Muslims were not allowed to enter Sinhagad Fort was found near the entrance of the historic site. The unauthorised poster, which was later removed by Forest Department officials, triggered criticism after photographs of it circulated widely on social media. Authorities are now examining how the notice was placed at the protected historical location and are working to identify those responsible.

According to Forest Department officials, the poster was written in Marathi and stated that the fort belonged to Hindus and that Muslims were not permitted to enter. The message ended with the words “by order”, allegedly creating the impression that it was an official government directive. Officials clarified that no such order had been issued by any government authority and removed the poster after it was discovered on Tuesday morning near an old metal board close to the vehicle parking area at the fort entrance.

A Pune Rural Police official said that no formal complaint has been received so far in connection with the incident. However, police have begun examining CCTV footage from routes leading to the fort to identify the individuals who placed the poster. Authorities said legal action would be taken against those responsible after their identities are confirmed. Officials are also investigating whether the placement of the poster was intended to mislead visitors by presenting it as an authorised notice.

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Forest Department officials stated that the use of the phrase “by order” appeared to be an attempt by the person behind the poster to make it look like an official communication. Senior Police Inspector Rajesh Ramaghare of Haveli Police Station said that once information about the poster was received, the Forest Department was informed and officials immediately removed it. He added that technical evidence is being verified and appropriate action will follow based on the findings.

Sinhagad Fort, located around 28 kilometres southwest of Pune, is one of Maharashtra’s most significant historical landmarks. The medieval hill fort is closely associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Battle of Sinhagad fought in 1670. The fort and surrounding forest areas are managed by the Forest Department, which oversees the preservation and administration of the site.

The incident has raised concerns over the misuse of public and heritage spaces for spreading unauthorised messages that could create social tensions. Authorities have reiterated that the poster was not an official notice and have begun efforts to ensure that such material is removed promptly from protected locations. Further details are awaited as the police investigation continues.

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