In a bid to restore order after a spate of violent incidents, authorities in Nagpur have imposed a strict curfew across several parts of the city. The measure comes in the wake of escalating tensions over demands to relocate the tomb of the 17th-century Mughal emperor Aurangzeb from Maharashtra. The controversial site, located in Aurangabad—now part of the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district—has become the focal point of heated protests and communal agitation.
The curfew, announced by Nagpur police commissioner Ravinder Kumar Singal under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, affects multiple localities including Kotwali, Ganeshpeth, Tehsil, Lakadganj, Pachpaoli, Shantinagar, Sakkardara, Nandanvan, Imamwada, Yashodharanagar, and Kapilnagar. The restrictions, which are effective until further notice, were implemented following violent clashes sparked by a protest in the Mahal area of Nagpur. Supporters of organizations like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal had assembled near a statue of Shivaji Maharaj, demanding that the Aurangzeb tomb be removed from the state. During the demonstration, slogans were raised, a photo of Aurangzeb was burned, and a symbolic grave wrapped in green cloth was set aflame, intensifying the communal fervor.
Reports indicate that the burning of the green cloth, believed by some to contain sacred verses, triggered further unrest. By evening, the situation deteriorated as approximately 80 to 100 individuals from a specific community turned violent. They resorted to hurling stones at police officers and setting vehicles on fire, forcing the authorities to intervene with lathicharges and teargas. According to a PTI report, four civilians sustained injuries while more than a dozen police personnel were hurt during the clashes.
Union Minister and three-time Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari has urged calm, emphasizing that the government is monitoring the situation closely and will act against those involved in any illegal activities. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis echoed these sentiments, urging citizens to cooperate with law enforcement and dismiss unverified rumours that could further destabilize the peace in this historically harmonious city.
While heavy security forces have been deployed to maintain order, a total of 50 people have been detained in connection with the disturbances. Opposition voices have criticized the state government for its handling of the situation. Shiv Sena UBT legislator Aaditya Thackeray lamented the collapse of law and order, while leaders from other parties stressed the importance of unity and calm. The incident, steeped in historical sensitivities, underscores the challenges of managing communal sentiments and maintaining peace in a diverse society.
