Nagpur Erupts in Violence Over Aurangzeb Tomb Row; Police, Firemen Injured
Nagpur, 18th March 2025: Violent clashes broke out late Monday night in Nagpur’s Mahal area, just 2 km from the RSS headquarters, as protests over demands to remove Aurangzeb’s tomb escalated into widespread rioting. The unrest led to stone pelting, arson, and attacks on law enforcement officers, leaving several personnel injured.
Among those wounded were 10 commandos from the anti-riot police, two senior IPS officers, and two fire department officials. A constable is reportedly in critical condition at a government hospital. The rioters torched two earthmovers and nearly 40 vehicles, including police vans.
As violence spread, authorities launched large-scale combing operations, arresting at least 50 people involved in the rioting. The Union Home Ministry has sought a detailed report on the incident, which comes just weeks ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected visit to the city.
Tensions Escalate Over Rumors
According to police sources, the clashes were triggered by unverified reports that effigies of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and a ‘chadar’ with religious verses had been set on fire by certain groups near Shivaji Putla Square at Mahal Gate. The news quickly spread, leading to mass gatherings and heightened tensions.
As anger mounted, members of another community assembled in large numbers, demanding immediate action. The situation soon spiraled out of control as mobs clashed with police forces, hurled stones, and vandalized property. Protesters advancing toward Mahal were met with Riot Control Police at Chitnis Park Chowk, where violent confrontations ensued.
Officials Injured, Police Reinforcements Deployed
Among those injured in the mayhem were DCP (Traffic) Archit Chandak and DCP (Zone 5) Niketan Kadam, who sustained injuries while attempting to restore order. Firefighters, deployed to douse burning vehicles, also found themselves caught in the chaos.
As the violence spread, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari issued urgent appeals for calm.
“Nagpur has always been a city known for peace and harmony. I urge citizens not to believe in rumors and to support law enforcement in maintaining order,” Fadnavis stated, assuring that he was closely monitoring the situation.
Guardian Minister Chandrashekar Bawankule visited the affected areas and vowed strict action against those involved. “We will ensure that every individual responsible for this violence is tracked down and held accountable,” he said.
Allegations of External Influence
Central Nagpur MLA Pravin Datke suggested that external elements had played a role in inciting the riots. “It appears that outsiders were brought in to fuel unrest. While we are committed to maintaining peace, we have directed the police to identify and take stern action against those responsible,” he said.
Security Tightened, Prohibitory Orders Enforced
In response to the violence, Commissioner of Police Ravinder Singal deployed over 1,000 police personnel across central Nagpur. Prohibitory orders have been enforced in sensitive areas, including Mahal, Chitnis Park Chowk, and Bhaldarpura, restricting movement to prevent further escalation.
Authorities remain on high alert, with additional security forces stationed to ensure peace is restored in the city. Investigations are underway to determine the extent of damage and identify those involved in orchestrating the violence.
