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By:

Rajendra Joshi

3 December 2024 at 3:50:26 am

Kolhapur’s Pilgrimage Paradox

Kolhapur: Even as the state government clears the first tranche of Rs 1,500 crore under an ambitious Rs 5,000-crore plan for the development of Kolhapur as a major pilgrimage centre, the ground reality for devotees tells a far less reassuring story. Each month, the temple’s donation boxes swell by an estimated Rs two crore, while crores more lie parked in bank deposits earning interest. Yet, for the thousands who arrive daily to seek the blessings of Goddess Ambabai, the journey to the...

Kolhapur’s Pilgrimage Paradox

Kolhapur: Even as the state government clears the first tranche of Rs 1,500 crore under an ambitious Rs 5,000-crore plan for the development of Kolhapur as a major pilgrimage centre, the ground reality for devotees tells a far less reassuring story. Each month, the temple’s donation boxes swell by an estimated Rs two crore, while crores more lie parked in bank deposits earning interest. Yet, for the thousands who arrive daily to seek the blessings of Goddess Ambabai, the journey to the sanctum begins with an ordeal—walking barefoot on scorching roads under an unforgiving sun. With temperatures in Kolhapur soaring past 40°C, asphalt and concrete roads leading to the temple radiate intense heat. For devotees—many of whom travel hundreds of kilometres—this translates into a painful trek, quite literally. The situation is particularly harsh for senior citizens, who are often seen hopping from one foot to another in a desperate attempt to avoid the burning surface. In such conditions, the absence of even basic protective arrangements raises uncomfortable questions about priorities in pilgrimage infrastructure. Stark Irony The irony is stark. While policy blueprints and financial approvals move through bureaucratic channels, immediate, low-cost interventions remain unaddressed. Simple measures—laying heat-resistant carpets along key approach roads, ensuring regular water sprinkling to cool surfaces, and erecting temporary shaded canopies—could significantly ease the devotees’ distress. Such steps do not demand massive outlays, only administrative initiative. As chairperson of the temple trust, the Kolhapur District Collector is uniquely positioned to catalyse this response. The summer vacation period only amplifies the challenge. Families flock to Kolhapur in large numbers, often combining visits to Ambabai temple with pilgrimages to nearby shrines such as Jyotiba. The surge in footfall transforms the temple precinct into a sea of humanity. Yet, the infrastructure has failed to keep pace. A similar concern was flagged last year as well, with limited, ad hoc relief provided by a few local traders who laid makeshift carpets for their customers. This year, however, little appears to have changed. Humane Pilgrimage The issue, therefore, is not merely administrative—it is collective. The responsibility to ensure a humane pilgrimage experience cannot rest solely with the temple trust or the municipal corporation. Traders and business associations operating in the temple vicinity, who benefit from the steady influx of devotees, must also step forward. Kolhapur has historically demonstrated remarkable civic spirit during festivals such as Navratri and the Rathotsav. Extending that ethos to provide shaded pathways during peak summer would be a meaningful gesture of reciprocity. Across India, leading pilgrimage centres have invested in visitor comfort—air-conditioned waiting areas, chilled drinking water, and clean sanitation facilities are increasingly the norm. In many cases, nominal user charges are levied, and devotees are willing to pay for such services. Kolhapur risks falling behind if it does not address these gaps with urgency. At its core, the issue is one of dignity. Devotion should not come at the cost of physical distress. Until basic amenities are ensured, the promise of transforming Kolhapur into a premier religious tourism hub will remain incomplete. For now, the pilgrim’s experience continues to echo a troubling refrain: first the searing heat beneath the feet, and only then, the grace of the goddess.

The Intense Battle for Mumbai’s Top Police Positions

Updated: Oct 21, 2024

The Intense Battle for Mumbai’s Top Police Positions

A few DCP positions and one Additional CP post are currently vacant, and there is an expectation that they will be filled after the Ganesh festival. In my opinion, the contenders for these positions include Dr. Sudhakar Pathare, who is DCP Thane (Zone 4), S. B. Gunjal, DCP Thane (Zone 3), and Vivek Pansare, DCP Navi Mumbai (Zone 1). If you are wondering why I have mentioned these three, read on to find out.

Dr. Sudhakar Pathare was recently transferred to Satara as SP, but the current SP, Sameer Sheikh, persuaded CM Eknath Shinde to stop the transfer—it seems possible only in Maharashtra, especially for the CM’s home district! With a stay order in place, Pathare has approached a powerful Thane politician to secure a Mumbai DCP role. Given that Pathare is due for promotion in the next 3-4 months, it might be more prudent to wait for his promotion and then assign him a suitable position in Mumbai.

Vivek Pansare, based in Navi Mumbai, has set his sights on the Social Service Branch of the Mumbai Police rather than a minor position in Mumbai. Beyond the responsibilities listed on their website, this post involves conducting raids on hotels and pubs—arguably one of the “most profitable per night” operations in the city. This crucial role helps regulate Mumbai’s nightlife and curtail illegal activities.

S.B. Gunjal is weary of the daily pressures in Thane and is eager to transfer to Mumbai as DCP. However, he’s looking for a post where “aamdani atthani, kharcha nahi” applies—meaning he wants to live within his salary without the added lifestyle temptations of a high-profile zone like Mumbai Zone 9, where expenses could far exceed his earnings. He is quite adamant about being posted in Zones 6, 7, or 12, where there’s less “attention” and fewer distractions.

Any posting, whether in the IAS or IPS is highly coveted for Mumbai MMR, as it is considered the power centre. Whether you’re in Navi Mumbai or Thane, the influence of Mumbai remains the same. So, everyone in their lifetime once wants to be a part of the great power, and in the government posting circles, time spent here is considered a golden period for these officers.

I know of an IPS officer who has managed to retain his posting in Mumbai for more than eight years due to his wife. a Mumbai school headmistress who enjoys the lifestyle of a westernised Mumbaikar. Unfortunately for this well-meaning IPS officer, even if he wishes to explore postings in other cities, the wife uses her connections and ensures he remains in Mumbai!

I also know of a female IPS officer in Mumbai with a reputation for being ‘dangerous’ in her relentless pursuit of preferred postings that have been side-posted. Her domineering nature is well-known, often causing friction with other Additional CPs. In contrast, her husband, also an IPS officer, is diligent and non-interfering, quietly focusing on his duties. Despite her efforts, her superiors seemingly ignore her demands, and one can’t help but feel some sympathy for her.

Now, coming back to the three ‘mahashays’ from Thane and Navi Mumbai vying for Mumbai postings, they are all leveraging their connections to advance. Interestingly, their source is the same influential politician from Thane. However, with the Home Ministry now under Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, only the DGP, the Thane Commissioner, and the Home Minister must make decisions about these postings—not any politician from Thane. As the competition heats up, ensuring a fair process is crucial for selecting the most qualified candidates.

(The writer is a journalist based in Mumbai. Views personal)

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