Violence In Nagpur After Agitation Over Aurangzeb’s Tomb; 50 Detained, Curfew Imposed In Several Areas

Nagpur witnessed a wave of violence following an agitation over the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb. The unrest led to multiple injuries, detentions, and the imposition of a curfew in several areas of the city. But what exactly happened, and how did the situation escalate so quickly? Let’s break it down.

What Triggered the Violence? Aurangzeb’s tomb agitation

The violence stemmed from a demonstration led by right-wing organizations like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal. They demanded the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb, claiming it was a historical reminder of oppression.

• Protesters set fire to an effigy of Aurangzeb.
• Slogans were raised against the Mughal emperor.
• By evening, tensions escalated, leading to violence.

Timeline of the Events

Monday Afternoon: Peaceful Protests Turn Heated

• Demonstrators gathered in the Mahal area.
• The crowd burned an effigy of Aurangzeb.
• Law enforcement monitored the situation closely.

Monday Evening: Violence Erupts

• By 7:30 PM, mobs began pelting stones at the police.
• Vehicles and property were set on fire.
• Clashes between protestors and authorities intensified.

Late Night Unrest in Hansapuri

• From 10:30 PM to 11:30 PM, riots continued in the Hansapuri area.
• Houses, clinics, and vehicles were vandalized.
• Police struggled to control the situation.

Law Enforcement Response

To curb the violence, authorities imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.

Key Actions Taken:

• 50 individuals were detained.
• Heavy police deployment in sensitive areas.
• Curfew was declared in Mahal, Hansapuri, and nearby regions.

Political Reactions and Appeals for Calm

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari urged citizens to maintain peace.

• Fadnavis: “Police are managing the situation. Do not believe rumors.”
• Gadkari: “Nagpur has a history of peace. Let’s not disrupt it.”
• Congress Leader Harshvardhan Sapkal: Blamed the state’s home department for the violence.
• Shiv Sena’s Aaditya Thackeray: Criticized the law enforcement breakdown.

Impact on the City

• Businesses in affected areas remained shut.
• Schools and offices witnessed lower attendance.
• Increased police patrolling across Nagpur.

What’s Next?

The administration is monitoring the situation closely. Investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible for inciting violence. The state government has assured strict action against culprits.

Nagpur’s recent violence serves as a reminder of how historical tensions can lead to modern-day unrest. The need for peaceful discourse and responsible leadership is greater than ever. While curfew and arrests may bring temporary control, long-term solutions require addressing deeper communal issues.

1. Why did the violence start in Nagpur?

The unrest began after right-wing groups protested against the presence of Aurangzeb’s tomb, leading to clashes and violence.

2. How many people were detained?

At least 50 individuals were taken into custody following the riots.

3. Which areas in Nagpur were affected?

Mahal, Hansapuri, and nearby localities saw intense violence and curfews.

4. What actions did the police take?

Authorities imposed prohibitory orders, arrested rioters, and deployed additional forces to maintain order.

5. What is the government’s stance on the issue?

Leaders from all parties condemned the violence and urged people to remain calm.