NEW DELHI: Violence broke out in several parts of Nagpur after a right-wing protest demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. Tensions soared after rumours spread that a religious book was burned, leading to large-scale stone-pelting, vandalism, and arson.
The worst-hit areas were Mahal and Hansapuri, where vehicles were set on fire and shops were damaged by unidentified individuals. The violence occurred just two kilometres from the RSS headquarters, raising security concerns.
Curfew imposed
To control the situation, Nagpur Police imposed prohibitory measures under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and enforced Section 144, which bans large gatherings. A curfew has been imposed in several areas. The police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify others involved.
50 arrested in police crackdown
At least 10 anti-riot commandos, two senior police officers, and two firemen sustained serious injuries during the violence, while a constable remains in critical condition in the hospital.
Mobs set fire to two bulldozers and 40 vehicles, including police vans, as security forces faced challenges in controlling the situation. In response, police launched a large-scale crackdown, arresting 50 rioters, while the ministry of home affairs (MHA) sought a report on the unrest.
Nagpur gears up for PM Modi’s expected visit amid unrest
As Nagpur deals with recent violence, the city is preparing for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected visit on March 30. This will be his first public appearance alongside RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat since starting his third term.
Govt and political reactions
Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Singal assured residents that the situation is now under control and urged them not to believe in rumours. “We have imposed Section 144, and everyone has been told not to step out unnecessarily or take the law into their own hands. Do not believe rumors. Except for this area, the entire city is peaceful,” he said.
Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis called for peace, highlighting Nagpur’s history of communal harmony. “Nagpur is a peaceful city where people share in each other’s joys and sorrows. Do not believe any rumors,” he said.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Pawan Khera attacked the BJP-led state government, blaming it for failing to maintain law and order and accusing political parties of fuelling tensions.
“If the VHP and Bajrang Dal organized a protest demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb, did the government make no arrangements to maintain law and order?” he questioned.
Current situation and political row
Security forces are conducting searches to arrest those responsible for the violence. Authorities have asked people to remain calm, avoid unnecessary travel, and not spread misinformation. The situation is being closely monitored to prevent further disturbances.
The unrest also sparked a political row in the Maharashtra Assembly. State Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal compared CM to Mughal ruler Aurangzeb, calling him a cruel ruler. His remarks led to an uproar in the ongoing Budget session, with Mahayuti leaders demanding legal action against him.
VHP, Bajrang Dal rally in Nagpur
The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal held a demonstration in Nagpur on Monday, demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s grave in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Right-wing activists gathered at the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the Mahal area, chanting slogans and burning an effigy of Aurangzeb.
Row over Aurangzeb
This controversy over Aurangzeb has also been fuelled by the newly released Vicky Kaushal-starrer film Chhava, which portrays the conflict between Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Sambhaji and Aurangzeb after Chhatrapati Shivaji’s death.
The issue ties into a larger historical shift, as Aurangabad was officially renamed Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar in June 2022 to honor Sambhaji Bhosale, the second Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire.
