Nagpur Erupts in Violence Following Protests Against Aurangzeb’s Tomb

Stone Pelting, Arson Reported as Bajrang Dal, VHP Demand Removal of Tomb

Nagpur |

Nagpur witnessed violent clashes on Monday, March 17, after protests demanding the demolition of Aurangzeb’s tomb escalated into stone pelting and arson in multiple areas, including Ganeshpeth, Mahal, and Gandhibagh. The protests, led by Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), triggered communal tensions, forcing police to resort to lathi-charge and tear gas to disperse the crowds.

How Violence Erupted

According to police sources, tensions escalated when a rumor spread that a holy book of the Muslim community had been burned during the protests. The news quickly went viral on social media, fueling outrage and leading to heated confrontations between two groups.

Videos of Bajrang Dal’s demonstration circulated online, intensifying anger and drawing people to the streets. The situation soon spiraled out of control, with both sides engaging in stone-pelting. Several people were injured, and police had to be deployed in large numbers to contain the violence.

Statewide Protests & Political Reactions

The demand for the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb has sparked protests across Maharashtra, including Pune, Kolhapur, Nashik, Malegaon, and Ahilyanagar. The controversy gained momentum after Samajwadi Party MP Abu Azmi praised the Mughal emperor, drawing sharp reactions from right-wing groups.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari condemned the violence, calling it “unfortunate” and urging citizens to maintain peace. He stated,

“Nagpur is known for peace and harmony. The administration will take strict action against those responsible. I appeal to all citizens to cooperate and not fall for rumors.”

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also issued a statement, emphasizing that Nagpur has a long-standing tradition of unity and urging people to avoid spreading unverified information. He assured that the police and administration are actively working to restore order.

Security Tightened as Police Take Action

To prevent further escalation, additional police forces, Quick Response Teams (QRTs), riot control units, and the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) have been deployed. Authorities have also increased security in other sensitive parts of the city.

Commissioner of Police Ravinder Singhal confirmed that FIRs are being registered, and strict action will be taken against those involved in violence, arson, and spreading misinformation.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Congress Chief Harshvardhan Sapkal blamed the government for failing to control the situation.

“This is the home city of both Chief Minister Fadnavis and Union Minister Gadkari. The fact that such large-scale violence broke out shows the failure of the Home Department. For days, some ministers have been making provocative statements, fueling communal discord,” he alleged.

Appeal for Calm Amidst Tensions

Authorities are urging citizens to maintain peace and not fall for provocative social media posts or rumors. The situation in Nagpur remains tense but under control as police continue efforts to restore normalcy.