Tensions gripped Nagpur’s Mahal area on Monday following violent clashes between two groups amid a protest by a right-wing organization demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. The unrest quickly spiraled into vandalism, arson, and stone pelting, prompting police intervention and the imposition of Section 144 in the region.

Vehicles Torched, Stone Pelting Reported

Several vehicles were set ablaze as clashes intensified. Reports from eyewitnesses and officials confirm that two JCBs were torched, and multiple explosions were heard from burning vehicles. Fire Brigade officials stated that one firefighter sustained injuries while trying to douse the flames.

Dramatic visuals shared by ANI depicted scattered debris, burning cars, and plumes of smoke rising from the site. The police rushed to the spot to control the situation, deploying Quick Response Teams (QRT) and Riot Control Police to restore order.

Trigger for the Violence: Alleged Desecration of Holy Book

According to news agency PTI, the violence erupted after reports surfaced that a holy book of the Muslim community was burned during the right-wing protest. This provoked outrage among Muslim groups, leading to retaliatory protests and clashes.

Additional tensions arose after a photograph was allegedly burned during the protest, leading to further unrest. Nagpur Police Commissioner Dr. Ravinder Singal confirmed that the police had taken at least 50 people into custody in connection with the violence.

Police Action and Security Measures

To contain the violence, police resorted to firing tear gas shells and baton-charging the crowd. At least four people sustained injuries in the clashes, including police personnel.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Archit Chandak stated that the violence resulted from miscommunication and urged people to stay indoors. "The situation is under control now, and I appeal to everyone to refrain from stone-pelting or engaging in unlawful activities," he said.

Section 144 Imposed, Arrests Made

Authorities have imposed Section 144 in Nagpur, restricting public gatherings to prevent further escalation. The police have begun a combing operation in Mahal, identifying and arresting those involved in the violence.

Nagpur Police are also reviewing CCTV footage and video clips to track down miscreants, and an FIR is currently being processed.

Eyewitness Accounts: Mob Violence and Property Damage

Local residents described terrifying scenes as mobs rampaged through the streets, attacking vehicles and homes.

A resident, Sunil Peshne, whose car was set on fire, recounted, “Around 500-1000 people were involved in stone pelting. They torched cars, vandalized 25-30 vehicles, and created chaos.”

Officials confirmed that the Chitnish Park to Shukrawari Talao road belt was one of the most affected areas, with multiple four-wheelers set on fire by rioters.

Government and Political Reactions

CM Devendra Fadnavis Warns of Strict Action

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the violence, stating that strict action would be taken against those responsible for disturbing peace.

"Throwing stones at police and instigating riots is unacceptable. I have directed the police commissioner to take all necessary steps to restore order. If anyone tries to create unrest, they will face severe consequences," Fadnavis declared.

His office also issued a statement urging citizens not to believe rumors and to cooperate with authorities.

Nitin Gadkari Appeals for Peace

Union Minister and Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari also called for calm, emphasizing that rumors were fueling unnecessary tensions. He assured the public that the government would take strict action against those responsible.

Opposition Criticizes Government Over Law and Order

Opposition leaders lashed out at the BJP-led Maharashtra government, blaming it for the deterioration of law and order.

• Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi accused the government of allowing political opportunism to fuel violence.
• Congress Chief Harshvardhan Sapkal called the Nagpur violence a failure of the Home Department, alleging that provocative speeches by certain ministers had escalated tensions.

Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar went further, claiming that "pro-ruling organizations are deliberately spreading hatred to create communal conflict."

Current Situation: Is Nagpur Returning to Normal?

As of now, authorities claim that the situation is largely under control except for the Mahal region, where sporadic tensions persist. Police continue their combing operations, and security remains tight.

Despite assurances, fear and unease linger in Nagpur, with residents dreading further escalation. Authorities have urged people to stay indoors, avoid spreading rumors, and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure peace in the city.