In a significant political development highlighting internal friction, the ruling Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena on Friday joined public protests in Nashik against the proposed felling of approximately 1,825 trees for the 2027 Kumbh Mela. This move directly contradicts the stance of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who just a day earlier defended the decision.
Coalition Rift Over Environmental Concerns
The controversy centers on a 35-acre plot in Nashik's Tapovan forest area, which is slated to be cleared to build accommodations (akhadas) for sadhus attending the mega religious congregation. For several weeks, environmentalists, local residents, and cultural figures like actor Sayaji Shinde have vehemently opposed the plan.
The Shinde Sena's participation in the demonstrations marks a clear sign of discord within the ruling Mahayuti coalition, which includes the BJP, Shinde's Sena, and the NCP. On Friday, Sena city chief Pravin Tidme led a demonstration at Tapovan, with hundreds of supporters carrying placards and raising slogans.
Sena leader Ajay Borste made the party's position unequivocal, telling the media, "No matter what, we will not allow the chopping of these trees." This stand was earlier bolstered by Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, who supported the protestors by stating, "If the environment survives, the next generation survives."
Contrasting Stances from the Government
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had on Thursday defended the tree felling, citing space constraints to accommodate the millions of Kumbh Mela devotees. He dismissed objections as "political environmentalism." In contrast, Kumbh Mela minister Girish Mahajan offered a more conciliatory tone, calling some tree loss "inevitable" but promising mitigation measures.
"We will attempt replantation wherever possible. The number of trees to be cut will be kept to a minimum," Mahajan said. "For every tree removed, ten will be planted and maintained. Kumbh comes once in 12 years. The government is clear on its stand. We are all nature lovers."
Meanwhile, the Nashik Municipal Corporation has begun digging 15,000 pits for compensatory planting and has floated a tender to build an exhibition centre on the site, actions that have further fueled public outrage in recent weeks.
Growing Opposition and Public Anger
The protest movement has gained substantial momentum, uniting a broad spectrum of political and civil society groups. Opposition parties, including the Shiv Sena (UBT), Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), CPI, and CPI(M), have been actively demonstrating and have warned of intensifying their agitation if the decision is not revoked.
Environmental groups and citizens continue to stress the ecological importance of the Tapovan forest for Nashik city, arguing that its loss would have long-term detrimental effects. The joining of a key ruling alliance partner in these protests significantly increases the political pressure on the state government, forcing it to re-evaluate its strategy for managing infrastructure needs for the Kumbh Mela against growing environmental and public sentiment.
The situation remains fluid, with the government attempting to balance religious logistics with ecological preservation, while its own coalition sends mixed signals to the public.
