MLA Kelkar Calls on Youth to Guard Thane’s Roots

It has been 289 years since the Maratha liberation of the Thane Fort (now the Thane Jail) from the Portuguese. MLA Sanjay Kelkar stated that to ensure the retention of Thane’s historical heritage through the younger generation, “Thane Liberation Day” has been celebrated for the past 12 years.

Sahyadri Pratishthan celebrated the “Thane Liberation Day” on March 27 at the Thane Central Jail. MLA Sanjay Kelkar, the organisation’s working president and founder, Shramik Gojamgunde, were present.

On the other hand, there is a growing concern that a “builder lobby” is plotting to move the jail because high-rise buildings cannot be constructed within a certain distance of the facility. Work on a memorial for freedom fighters and murals depicting history had begun at the jail. Funds were allocated for staff quarters, and tenders were ready. However, this work has been halted. MLA Kelkar has raised this issue in the recent assembly session, questioning whether there is a conspiracy to relocate the jail and making it clear that the people of Thane firmly oppose any such move.

Various works are underway at several forts under the guidance of MLA Kelkar. Restoration work at Pimplas Fort is set to begin soon.