Violence in Nagpur over campaign to remove Aurangzeb’s tomb

NAGPUR: Violent clashes erupted on Monday night in the Mahal area of central Nagpur, 2km off the fortified RSS headquarters, after protests demanding the 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. As many as 40 vehicles were torched and police vans vandalized by mobs. Police launched combing operations and at least 50 rioters were arrested.

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.

Several areas of central Nagpur, including Bhaldapura, Gawalipura and some areas of Bajeria, remained tense. As clashes intensified, over1,000 police personnel were deployed in central Nagpur, where prohibitory orders have been clamped, restricting movement in sensitive areas of Mahal, Chitnis Park Chowk, and Bhaldarpura. Key roads, including Fawwara Chowk, Gandhi Putla Chowk, and Badkas Chowk, were sealed and security forces set up barricades to prevent escalation. Riot-control vehicles and tear gas units were deployed to disperse stone-pelting mobs.

As violence spread, CM Devendra Fadnavis 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 in a statement.