India, Dec. 4 -- A day after chief minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the proposed axing of 1,700 trees in Nashik to build temporary accommodation for sadhus attending the Simhastha Kumbh in 2026-27, deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar has thrown his weight behind citizens protesting the move.

"We must all remember that only if the environment is preserved will the next generation be safe," Pawar said in a post on social media on Wednesday.

Pawar's bold stand relates to the state's decision to clear 300 acres in Tapovan, to build Sadhugram, a township to house thousands of seers, priests and religious leaders for the Kumbh Mela in October-November 2026.

It also comes amid friction between the ruling allies in the BJP-led Mahayuti governm...