Curfew has been imposed in parts of Nagpur following violent clashes, sparked by protests over a row concerning the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The unrest began after rumours circulated about the desecration of a holy book during a demonstration against Aurangzeb’s tomb. This triggered large-scale violence, including arson, stone-pelting, and attacks on police personnel, which led to chaos in the city.
In response to the violence, authorities have implemented a curfew in sensitive areas like Mahal, Chitnis Park Chowk, and Bhaldarpura. In the wake of the unrest, several schools and colleges located in these affected areas have been closed as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Violence spreads quickly across central Nagpur
The violence erupted in the Mahal area, which is located just 2km from the fortified RSS headquarters. As reported by the TNN, violent mobs torched at least 40 vehicles, including police vans, and damaged public property. Anti-riot commandos, police officers, and firemen were injured while trying to restore order. Among the injured were two IPS officers and one constable, with the latter currently in critical condition.
Tensions quickly escalated as large groups from different communities gathered, demanding immediate action against those responsible for burning effigies of Aurangzeb. As the protests turned violent, riot control police were deployed, leading to clashes at Chitnis Park Chowk. Stone-pelting and arson further intensified the unrest, putting more lives at risk.
Strict action promised by officials
In the aftermath of the violence, CM Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari appealed for calm. “Nagpur has always been a peaceful city where people coexist in harmony. I urge citizens not to believe in rumours and cooperate with law enforcement,” Fadnavis was quoted by the TNN. The state government is monitoring the situation closely, and heavy police reinforcements have been deployed in central Nagpur.
Guardian Minister Chandrashekar Bawankule also visited the affected areas and assured the public that action would be taken against those responsible for the unrest. “Nobody will be spared,” he said, as quoted by the TNN. Furthermore, local MLA Pravin Datke alleged that “outsiders” were brought in to incite the violence and urged authorities to take strict action against them.
Parts affected due to curfew and institutions closed for precautionary measures
The curfew has affected several sensitive areas in central Nagpur, including Mahal, Chitnis Park Chowk, and Bhaldarpura, which saw the most intense clashes. In these areas, schools and colleges have been closed as a precautionary measure to protect students and staff from the ongoing violence. While specific institutions were not named, it is clear that educational institutions within these curfew zones have been shut down to ensure safety.
The closures are expected to remain in effect until the situation stabilises and the curfew is lifted. Authorities are working to restore peace, and the safety of the public remains the top priority.
