Nagpur Violence: More than 50 taken into custody; 5 FIRs reg

Violence erupted in Nagpur following a protest demanding the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb, which led to property damage, injuries to police officers, and widespread unrest. The clashes, which included arson, vandalism, and stone-throwing, were reportedly triggered by rumors surrounding the burning of a religious effigy and a 'chadar.' The situation escalated quickly, prompting a response from political leaders and law enforcement agencies.

Violence Breaks Out in Nagpur

The unrest unfolded when members of right-wing groups, including Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal, gathered to protest against the presence of Aurangzeb's tomb. Rumors spread that a religious effigy and a 'chadar' had been burned, which ignited anger and led to violent protests.

Key Incidents:

45 vehicles were vandalized during the protests.
33 police officers were injured, with several others harmed in the clashes.
Property damage was reported in several locations.
VIDEO | Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) spoke on video call with Deputy Commissioner of Police Niketan Kadam, who was injured in Nagpur violence and wished him speedy recovery.#NagpurViolence #NagpurNews

(Full video available on PTI Videos -… pic.twitter.com/viGsjfbepw— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 18, 2025

CM Devendra Fadnavis Condemns the Violence

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the violence, emphasizing that such actions were unacceptable. He described the events as a "pre-planned attack" aimed at stirring communal unrest. Fadnavis also attributed the increased tension to the recent release of the movie Chhava, which depicts the atrocities committed by Aurangzeb against Sambhaji Maharaj.

Key Statements from Fadnavis:

He called the attack a "well-planned conspiracy" and expressed his disapproval of any glorification of Aurangzeb.
He urged for calm and asked citizens to maintain peace throughout Maharashtra.
Fadnavis warned that strict action would be taken against those who attacked the police and spread violence.
On Nagpur violence, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis says, "This violent incident and riots seem to be pre-planned."

"Chhava movie has ignited people’s anger against Aurangzeb still, everyone must keep Maharashtra peaceful." pic.twitter.com/XYaDSuBP7X— ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2025

Police Response and Action

The Nagpur Police took swift action to control the situation and ensure public safety. Over 50 people were taken into custody, and five FIRs were registered in connection with the violence. Police Commissioner Dr. Ravinder Singal confirmed that curfew had been imposed in certain parts of Nagpur to prevent further disturbances.

Key Developments:

Over 50 arrests have been made in connection with the violence.
Police are monitoring social media accounts to identify individuals spreading rumors.
Police officials revealed that petrol bombs were hurled during the clashes, further escalating the violence.
VIDEO | On violence, Nagpur CP Ravinder Singal says, "The incident that happened yesterday, it was between two groups. A photograph was burnt, then it was put on social media. A delegation had visited us and they wanted us to take action, FIR was registered, we were acting. But… pic.twitter.com/LlGVZUYX1d— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 18, 2025

Investigating a Pre-Planned Conspiracy

Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde echoed CM Fadnavis's concerns, labeling the incident a pre-planned attack. He confirmed that a large number of people, possibly from outside Nagpur, had gathered to incite violence. Shinde also mentioned that 4 senior police officers were injured during the clashes, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Shinde's Statements:

He confirmed that the police are investigating whether the violence was part of a larger conspiracy.
Shinde noted that the attackers targeted specific houses and establishments, further suggesting that the violence was planned.
He appealed to the public to maintain peace and cooperate with authorities during the investigation.
#WATCH | On Nagpur violence, Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde says, "The incident which occurred in Nagpur is unfortunate. Police are investigating if this was a pre-planned conspiracy. 4 DCP level officers were injured in this incident. The CM is reviewing the situation.… pic.twitter.com/j0T3vfMrkS— ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2025

Curfew Imposed and Further Investigation

To restore order, a curfew was imposed in several areas of Nagpur. Law enforcement agencies are actively working to identify and apprehend those responsible for inciting the violence. Police have also stated that the situation is under control, but continued vigilance is required to ensure that no further disturbances occur.

Ongoing Efforts:

A meeting with relevant stakeholders will be held to discuss preventive measures for future incidents.
Authorities are closely monitoring potential threats and working to de-escalate tensions.
#WATCH | Maharashtra | Nagpur violence | BJP MLA (Nagpur Central) Pravin Datke says, "I have reached here this early morning. This entire thing was preplanned. After an agitation yesterday morning, an incident took place at Ganesh Peth police station, then everything was… pic.twitter.com/pnhEGomViZ— ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2025

The Role of the 'Chhava' Movie in the Unrest

The recent release of the Marathi film Chhava has been cited as a contributing factor to the violence. The film portrays the brutal actions of Aurangzeb and has reignited anger and emotions surrounding his legacy.

Impact of the Film:

Chhava has caused heightened sentiment against Aurangzeb, leading to protests and violence.
Maharashtra's political leaders have urged the public to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation of tensions.
#WATCH | Maharashtra: Morning visuals from the Mahal area of Nagpur, where a clash took place last night following a dispute between two groups. pic.twitter.com/U83N4nNULx— ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2025

Strict Action and Peaceful Resolution Urged

The violence in Nagpur has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders and law enforcement authorities. Maharashtra's CM and Deputy CM have both emphasized that those behind the violence will not be spared, and that strict action will be taken against them. At the same time, both leaders have called for peace and cooperation from the public as investigations continue.

As the investigation progresses, authorities are working to prevent further disturbances and ensure that peace is restored in Nagpur and across Maharashtra.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies