Violence Erupts in Nagpur After Aurangzeb Tomb Protest; 50 Arrested, Widespread Destruction Reported

Nagpur, March 17, 2025: At least 50 people have been arrested after violent clashes broke out late Monday night in Nagpur's Mahal area, following a protest demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khultabad. The unrest led to significant property damage, including the torching of vehicles and bulldozers, and left dozens wounded, including police officers and firemen.

The violence, which saw protesters engage in stone-pelting, arson, and violent confrontations with security forces, began after reports surfaced that members of a particular community had burned effigies of Aurangzeb and a religious chadar near Shivaji Putla Square, just 2 km away from the RSS headquarters. This sparked counter-protests, further fueling tensions.

As tensions escalated, mobs torched two bulldozers and at least 40 vehicles, including police vans. Among the wounded were 10 anti-riot commandos, two senior police officers, and two firemen. A constable remains in critical condition. The destruction continued as security forces struggled to restore order, with incidents of stone-throwing and arson disrupting the city well into the night.

The unrest was exacerbated by rumors and misinformation circulating on social media, with many claiming exaggerated reports of the protests. As tempers flared, security forces deployed water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowds, while authorities activated riot-control measures and sealed key roads. Police officials stated that they were working to manage the situation, which had been exacerbated by the rapid spread of unverified information.

Nagpur Police Commissioner Dr. Ravinder Singal confirmed that the situation had been brought under control. Over 1,000 police officers were deployed to maintain order, and prohibitory orders were issued in the affected areas of Mahal, Chitnis Park Chowk, and Bhaldarpura. Section 144 was imposed to restrict public gatherings. Authorities also utilized CCTV-equipped surveillance vehicles and public address systems to monitor the situation and issue warnings.

"While there was some property damage, we have made significant arrests and are continuing our efforts to identify those responsible for the violence," Dr. Singal said. "The city remains mostly peaceful, except for sporadic stone-pelting incidents. We are taking action against all those involved in illegal activities."

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari urged the residents of Nagpur to maintain peace and not fall for rumors. "Nagpur has always been a city of harmony. I request citizens not to believe in rumors and to cooperate with the police," Fadnavis said in his statement.

Nagpur Police officials assured that peace had been restored, and urged residents to avoid unnecessary movement and follow the law. "We are actively monitoring the situation, and the rest of the city remains peaceful," Dr. Singal added.

Meanwhile, protests also erupted in the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, where Aurangzeb’s tomb is located. Members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal have taken an aggressive stand on the issue, warning the government that if their demands for the removal of the tomb are not met, they will escalate their agitation, possibly expanding across Marathwada and other districts.

“We will not let this matter rest. If the government fails to act, we will take matters into our own hands,” a VHP spokesperson said.

As the situation stabilizes, local authorities continue to monitor the area closely, with strict measures in place to prevent further unrest. The Ministry of Home Affairs has sought a report on the situation, especially with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Nagpur just weeks away. For now, residents have been urged to remain calm and avoid engaging in activities that could further inflame tensions.

The violence in Nagpur highlights the volatility of social unrest and the challenges of managing sensitive historical and cultural issues amid political and social divisions.