NAGPUR: Violent clashes erupted in central Nagpur late Monday after protests demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khultabad spiraled out of control, resulting in widespread chaos and destruction. At least 10 anti-riot commandos, two senior police officers, and two firemen sustained serious injuries, while a constable remains in critical condition.
Mobs torched two bulldozers and around 40 vehicles, including police vans, as security forces struggled to restore order. Police launched a large-scale crackdown, arresting 50 rioters, while the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) sought a detailed report on the violence, which occurred just two weeks before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Nagpur.
Rumours Fuel Unrest, Leading to Clashes
The violence was reportedly triggered by unverified rumours that protesters from a particular community had burned effigies of Aurangzeb and a religious chadar near Shivaji Putla Square at Mahal Gate, located just 2 km from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters. The rumours led to a swift and intense response from another community, with large crowds gathering to demand action against those involved. What began as a protest quickly escalated into stone-pelting, arson, and violent clashes with the police.
Police and Emergency Services Caught in Crossfire
Security forces deployed riot-control measures, including water cannons and tear gas, to disperse the mobs. Deputy Commissioners of Police Archit Chandak and Niketan Kadam sustained injuries while trying to contain the situation. Firefighters attempting to extinguish burning vehicles were also caught in the crossfire. Despite heavy police deployment, sporadic violence continued through the night, keeping several neighbourhoods on edge.
Security Measures and Government Response
Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Singal deployed over 1,000 officers and imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 in Mahal, Chitnis Park Chowk, and Bhaldarpura, restricting movement in sensitive areas. Key roads were sealed, and reinforcements along with intelligence teams were mobilized to prevent further escalation. Surveillance teams equipped with CCTVs and public address systems monitored the situation and issued warnings, while local peace committees were activated to mediate and ease tensions.
Leaders Urge Calm, Probe Ordered
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari appealed for calm and urged residents not to fall prey to misinformation. “Nagpur has always been a peaceful city where people coexist harmoniously. I request citizens not to believe rumours and cooperate with law enforcement,” Fadnavis said. Nagpur Guardian Minister Chandrashekar Bawankule visited the affected areas to assess the situation.
Allegations of External Influence and Warning from VHP
Nagpur MLA Pravin Datke alleged that “outsiders” were brought in to incite violence. “We have directed police to identify and take strict action against the perpetrators,” he said. Meanwhile, in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, where Aurangzeb’s tomb is located, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal staged protests, warning that the tomb would be demolished if the government failed to act. VHP leaders also hinted at escalating their agitation across Marathwada and other districts if their demands were not addressed.
With tensions running high, authorities remain on high alert to prevent further unrest and maintain peace in the region.
