Nagpur tense after protest against Aurangzeb tomb sparks violence

Nagpur Commissioner of Police Ravinder Singal, according to news agency PTI, said: “A photograph was set on fire, which instigated people. A case was registered regarding this, and an investigation is underway. Later, clashes broke out. Some police personnel have been injured, but no one sustained any serious injuries.”

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the Home portfolio, said, “I appeal to people not to fall prey to rumours. Everybody should maintain peace. The administration is taking all necessary measures.”

Union Minister and Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari said, “Due to certain rumours, a situation of religious tension has arisen in Nagpur. The city’s history is known for maintaining peace in such matters. I urge all my brothers not to believe in any kind of rumours and to maintain peace. Do not come out onto the streets. Cooperate with the law and order system. Preserve the tradition of peace and harmony that Nagpur is known for.”

“I assure you all that the government will take action against those who have committed mistakes or engaged in illegal activities. The Chief Minister has already been informed about this situation, so I request everyone not to pay attention to rumours. Please cooperate with the police administration, foster love, and maintain a positive atmosphere in the city. This is my humble request to all of you,” Gadkari said.

Congress Legislative Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar, who targeted the ruling party, too called for peace. “Deliberate efforts are being made to spread hatred and incite conflict between the two communities… Nagpur residents should maintain peace and ensure that no untoward incident occurs,” he said.

Police fired tear gas shells and resorted to lathicharge to disperse a mob in Chitnis Park and Mahal area. Violence also spread to Kotwali and Ganeshpeth, officials said.

Going by preliminary information, officials said the stretch from Chitnis Park to Shukrawari Talao was most affected by violence and some four-wheelers were set ablaze. Stones were also hurled at the homes of residents and the mob had to be dispersed by police.

An official said trouble began late afternoon after Bajrang Dal members held a demonstration near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Mahal area. Video clips of the demonstration began doing the rounds of social media, and tensions flared.

Bajrang Dal office-bearers said they had only burnt an effigy of Aurangzeb during the demonstration.

A complaint was lodged at Ganeshpeth police station in the evening, alleging desecration of a holy book.

Following the complaint, a large number of people started gathering in various parts of the city including Mahal, Kotwali, Ganeshpeth, Chitnis Park, police said.

Sensing trouble, police stepped up patrolling and called additional security forces to maintain law and order.

An official said stones were thrown at police personnel in Chitnis Park and Mahal areas, following which police fired tear gas shells.