Wikipedia Under Fire: Maharashtra Cyber Cell Registers Case Over False Info Over Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj

Mumbai: The Maharashtra Cyber Cell has registered a case against at least four Wikipedia editors for failing to remove "objectionable" content about Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj from the open-source encyclopedia, officials said on Friday.

The nodal cyber agency had earlier sent a notice to the Wikimedia Foundation, the California-based non-profit organization that hosts Wikipedia, requesting the removal of what it described as inaccurate content. The notice warned that the disputed information could lead to a law-and-order situation in Maharashtra, given that Sambhaji Maharaj—the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and a revered historical figure—commands immense respect in India.

Officials expressed concern that the content might spark unrest among his followers. However, with no response from Wikimedia regarding the takedown request, the Maharashtra Cyber Cell proceeded to register a case against the Wikipedia editors under relevant sections of the Information Technology (IT) Act, officials confirmed.

Wikipedia, a free-content online encyclopedia, is collaboratively maintained by a global community of volunteers. However, specific individuals have the ability to upload and edit content, a cyber cell official explained.

The controversy comes amid the release of the Hindi film Chhaava, which is based on the life of Sambhaji Maharaj, adding to the heightened sensitivity around the subject.

Chhaava Declared Tax Free In These States

Meanwhile, the Goa government has announced that the Hindi movie "Chhaava", based on the life of Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Sambhaji, will be tax-free in the state. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant made the announcement in a post on X. The sacrifice of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj is an inspiration for people, he said.

"It gives pleasure to me to announce that movie "Chhava" based on the life & sacrifice of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, will be Tax Free in Goa," Sawant said in the post.

"The Movie exploring the valor, courage of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj for Dev, Desh and Dharma played by Vicky Kaushal, is bringing the glorious history to the screen. The sacrifice of the second Chhatrapati of the Hindavi Swarajya, who valiantly fought against Moghuls, the Portuguese is an inspiration for all of us," he added.

Earlier Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had also announced that the film would be tax-free in his state. The announcement by both the states came on the 395th birth anniversary of Maratha empire founder Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, father of Chhatrapati Sambhaji. 

Featuring Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna, the movie is directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films. Kaushal has played the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in the film. 

(With PTI Inputs)