Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar civic body HQ stands on old burial ground; must relocate for relief from spirits that haunt the site: Guardian minister Shirsat

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: District guardian minister Sanjay Shirsat triggered a controversy on Wednesday, claiming the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar civic body's headquarters stands on a land that was once a burial ground and should be relocated because "spirits there cause unrest".Shirsat made the remarks while speaking at a function held to induct a new fire brigade vehicle of the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation (CSMC). He added that the municipal corporation was "under a shadow" due to the location of its building."The place where the building stands was earlier used for burials. Since it is part of a burial ground, spirits can be seen here, and they make people restless," he said.His comments sparked laughter among the audience. However, the minister further suggested relocation as a viable solution. "If you want freedom from this, construct the building at a proper place. The city needs to improve. Even these souls will find peace, and you too will be relieved," he added.Shirsat's comments overshadowed the civic initiative of strengthening the fire brigade capacity. The guardian minister also spoke of ensuring proper funds for the new building.A video of his comments was circulated widely on social media. It drew a mix of reactions from social media users, with some terming them "unscientific and insensitive". They argued that such statements could shift focus away from the pressing civic and administrative challenges faced by the corporation. Others, however, described the remarks as a personal belief expressed informally during a public function, and not meant to be taken literally.There was no immediate official response from the municipal administration, headed by newly appointed commissioner Amol Yedge, regarding Shirsat's suggestion to relocate the building.