NAGPUR: Violent clashes erupted on Monday night in Mahal area of central Nagpur, 2km from the fortified RSS headquarters, after protests demanding removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb spiralled out of control, resulting in stone-pelting, arson, and attacks on police personnel.
At least 10 commandos of anti-riot police, two IPS officers and two firemen sustained serious injuries in the ensuing unrest. One constable is battling for life in a govt-run hospital. Two earth movers and 40 vehicles were torched and police vans vandalized by mobs.
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Police launched combing operations and at least 50 rioters were arrested even as the Union home ministry sought a report on the violence, which comes two weeks before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s likely visit to the city.
Sources said the violence was triggered by rumours of effigies of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and a religious ‘chadar’ being burnt by right-wing activists near Shivaji Putla Square at Mahal gate.
As tensions flared, members of another community began assembling in large numbers, demanding immediate action against those responsible for the act. Within hours, the crisis escalated, with protesters clashing with police, hurling stones, and damaging property. As groups moved toward Mahal, they were confronted by Riot Control Police at Chitnis Park Chowk, which quickly turned into a battle zone as protesters resorted to stone-pelting.
Reports confirmed DCP (traffic) Archit Chandak and DCP Niketan Kadam (DCP, Zone 5) suffered injuries while trying to control rioters. Fire department personnel were also caught in the crossfire while trying to douse burning vehicles.
As violence spread, CM Devendra Fadnavis and Union minister Nitin Gadkari issued appeals for calm. “Nagpur has always been a peaceful city where people coexist in harmony. I urge citizens not to believe in rumours and cooperate with law enforcement,” Fadnavis said, adding that he was in constant touch with the police and monitoring the situation closely. Guardian minister Chandrashekar Bawankule visited ground zero and vowed to track down rioters. “Nobody will be spared,” he said.
Central Nagpur MLA Pravin Datke alleged “outsiders” were brought into the area to incite violence. “While the govt has urged for peace, we have instructed police to identify and take strict action against those responsible for the unrest,” Datke said.
CP Ravinder Singal ordered heavy reinforcements, deploying over 1,000 police personnel in central Nagpur, where prohibitory orders have been clamped, restricting movement in sensitive areas of Mahal, Chitnis Park Chowk, and Bhaldarpura.
