Nagpur: The city of Nagpur witnessed intense communal violence on Monday night after a protest involving the burning of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s effigy escalated into riots. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the incident, calling it a “premeditated conspiracy” aimed at disturbing social harmony. The violent clashes resulted in the injury of at least 33 police personnel, including three deputy commissioners of police (DCPs), and left multiple civilians wounded.
Authorities have imposed a curfew in several parts of Nagpur following the violence, which erupted in the central areas of the city. Protesters reportedly took to the streets in response to growing sentiments against Aurangzeb, further fueled by the recently released movie Chhaava, which depicts the persecution of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj at the hands of Aurangzeb.
The situation spiraled out of control when mobs, allegedly armed with weapons and a trolley full of stones, began targeting specific homes and establishments. Several vehicles were set on fire, and houses were vandalized. Law enforcement officials attempting to control the situation were also attacked.
According to CM Fadnavis, 33 police personnel, including senior officers, were injured in the clashes. A high-ranking officer was reportedly attacked with an axe, highlighting the intensity of the mob violence. “A group of people in a planned manner attacked police personnel with the intention of disrupting law and order in Nagpur. Those responsible, irrespective of their religious identity, will not be spared,” Fadnavis asserted in the Maharashtra Assembly.
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde also addressed the issue, calling it an “unfortunate incident” and suggesting that it may have been a “pre-planned conspiracy.” “Police investigations indicate that many of those involved in the violence came from outside Nagpur, and petrol bombs were used in the attack,” Shinde revealed.
The violence has ignited political debates, with leaders urging restraint. CM Fadnavis acknowledged the anger sparked by Chhaava but appealed to people to maintain peace. “While the movie has reminded people of history, it is crucial that we do not let this anger lead to violence. Law and order must prevail, and strict action will be taken against rioters,” he stated.
Deputy CM Shinde also condemned the attack, emphasizing that no community should be targeted unfairly. “Aurangzeb was a tyrant who inflicted immense suffering on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. But the way to honor our history is not through violence. We must ensure Maharashtra remains peaceful,” he said.
The Nagpur police have arrested at least 50 people in connection with the violence. Authorities are also investigating reports of external involvement in instigating the clashes. The state government has assured strict legal action against those responsible, with further arrests expected in the coming days.
Meanwhile, curfew remains in place in several affected areas, with police and paramilitary forces deployed to prevent further escalation. Schools and businesses in the curfew zones remain closed, and authorities have urged citizens to avoid spreading rumors that could inflame tensions further.
