Violent clashes broke out in central Nagpur late Monday after protests demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khultabad escalated into chaos. The unrest resulted in dozens of injuries, widespread destruction of property, and a large-scale police crackdown. The situation remains tense as authorities attempt to restore order just weeks before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to the city.
Clashes Leave Several Injured, Security Forces Targeted
At least ten anti-riot commandos, two senior police officers, and two firemen sustained serious injuries during the violence. A police constable remains in critical condition in the hospital. As mobs took to the streets, they torched two bulldozers and set fire to 40 vehicles, including police vans, making it difficult for security forces to contain the situation. The violence prompted a swift crackdown, with police arresting 50 rioters. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has sought a detailed report on the incident.
Rumors and Social Media Fuel Unrest
The clashes were reportedly triggered by rumors that protesters from a particular community had burned effigies of Aurangzeb and a religious chadar near Shivaji Putla Square at Mahal Gate, just 2 km from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters. Reports of this act quickly spread, leading to counter-protests from another community. The demonstrations soon spiraled into stone-pelting, arson, and violent clashes with police. Officials have stated that misinformation circulating on social media played a major role in intensifying the violence.
Police and Security Measures Intensified
In response to the escalating violence, security forces deployed riot-control vehicles, including water cannons and tear gas units, to disperse the mobs. Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) Archit Chandak and Niketan Kadam were among those injured while attempting to manage the crowds. Firefighters trying to extinguish burning vehicles also found themselves caught in the crossfire.
Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Singal took immediate action, deploying over 1,000 officers and imposing prohibitory orders in sensitive areas such as Mahal, Chitnis Park Chowk, and Bhaldarpura. Movement was restricted, and key roads were sealed off. Reinforcements, intelligence teams, and surveillance vehicles equipped with CCTV cameras were deployed to monitor the situation. Authorities also activated local peace committees, urging community leaders to help restore order and prevent further escalation.
Political Reactions and Government Appeals for Peace
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari both appealed for calm, emphasizing the need to maintain peace in Nagpur. “Nagpur has always been a peaceful city where people coexist in harmony. I urge citizens not to believe rumors and cooperate with law enforcement,” Fadnavis said.
Nagpur’s Guardian Minister, Chandrashekar Bawankule, visited the affected areas to assess the situation, while Central Nagpur MLA Pravin Datke alleged that “outsiders” had been brought in to incite violence. “We have instructed police to identify and take strict action against those responsible,” he stated in Mumbai.
VHP and Bajrang Dal Threaten Further Agitation
In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, where Aurangzeb’s tomb is located, right-wing groups such as the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal staged protests, warning of direct action if the government failed to address their demands. Protesters threatened to demolish the tomb, leading to heightened security in the area.
VHP leaders have hinted at intensifying their agitation across Marathwada and other districts if their demands remain unmet. As tensions continue to simmer, authorities remain on high alert to prevent further outbreaks of violence.
With a passion for news writing and a deep interest in Journalism, Bowrna wants to write articles that create an impact. Not only writing, she also has a passion for voiceovers and also aspires to become a Radio Jockey in the future. When not writing, she likes to listen to songs and dance to her heart's content. She is proficient in English, Tamil and Hindi.
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