Nagpur violence: Vehicles burnt, houses attacked, locals share their ordeal, Curfew imposed

Fear and tension have gripped Nagpur’s Mahal area following violent clashes and arson triggered by a demand to relocate the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb from Maharashtra.  

In response to the violence, authorities have imposed a curfew in multiple areas of Nagpur, including Kotwali, Ganeshpeth, Lakadganj, Pachpaoli, Shantinagar, Sakkardara, Nandanvan, Imamwada, Yashodhara Nagar, and Kapil Nagar, restricting movement until further notice.

The tomb, which dates back to the 17th century, is situated in Aurangabad, now renamed Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district.

Residents of Mahal narrated their harrowing experiences to the news agency, demanding strict action against those responsible.

One local recounted how his car was completely destroyed.

“My car is completely damaged. Hundreds of people entered our lane, shouting with petrol bombs and sticks. They burnt several cars. After repeatedly calling, the police took some time to get here, and even officers who arrived were attacked and injured.”

Another resident described how around 200-300 rioters overpowered the police, injuring officers and torching vehicles.

“No one could step out; we feared for our lives. Even the 25 police personnel on duty couldn’t control them. My neighbour’s car was burned, and my two-wheeler was damaged,” he said.

Meanwhile, Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Kumar Singal has issued a notice under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, enforcing curfew across multiple police station jurisdictions.

According to the police notice, the violence erupted after Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal supporters gathered near Shivaji Maharaj’s statue in Mahal to protest against Aurangzeb’s tomb.

During the protest, they reportedly burned a photograph of Aurangzeb and a “symbolic grave wrapped in a green cloth filled with grass.”

Reports suggest that the burning of the green cloth led to rumours that sacred verses had been set on fire, sparking violent reactions. Around 80-100 individuals reportedly turned aggressive, hurling stones at police officers and setting vehicles ablaze.

Some sources claim knives were also thrown at security personnel. Police resorted to lathi charges and tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Authorities have detained 50 people in connection with the violence, and a heavy police force has been deployed to maintain order.

State Revenue Minister to visit violence hit areas

State Revenue Minister and Nagpur district guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankuke on Tuesday rushed to the city.  He will visit the violence-affected areas and hold a meeting with the police officials.  

Minister Bawankule, who held a marathon meeting with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday night, will take stock of the situation.

He has appealed to the citizens not to believe in rumours but to cooperate with the police in maintaining peace, and law and order. Bawankule hinted that the state government has taken the Monday violence quite seriously and will make all efforts to restore peace and harmony in Nagpur.

City police commissioner Dr Ravinder Kumar Singhal said so far the police have taken 47 people into custody and have lodged four FIRs with regard to violence, stone pelting, arson and attack on police and fire brigade personnel. About 15 police personnel, including three deputy police commissioners, are seriously injured.

The police sources said three DCP-rank police officers were seriously injured.

DCP Niketan Kadam, who was bleeding profusely after being attacked with an axe on his hand last night, has been admitted to the hospital in a seriously injured condition. DCP Shashikant Satav fractured his leg and was also admitted to the hospital.

DCP Archit Chandak has suffered a serious ligament injury and was under medical examination.

DCP Rahul Madane was also hit by a stone but is currently on duty.

According to police sources, 55 social media accounts allegedly spreading objectionable videos and content are under the radar. 

(With inputs from syndicated feed)