Synopsis
Violent clashes erupted in Nagpur over the demolition of Aurangzeb's grave, leading to protests, stone pelting, and arson. Police were deployed to restore order as tensions escalated between rival groups. Leaders urged citizens to maintain peace and avoid rumors.Key Takeaways
- Violent clashes in Nagpur sparked by grave demolition.
- Protests led to stone pelting and arson incidents.
- Police deployed to restore order amidst escalating tensions.
- Leaders urge community cooperation and peace.
- Concerns raised over incitement of conflict by officials.
Nagpur, March 17 (NationPress) In the midst of an escalating controversy regarding the demolition of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's grave located at Sambhajinagar, violent confrontations erupted between two factions in Maharashtra's second capital, Nagpur, resulting in stone pelting and acts of arson.
According to police reports, several organizations had organized a protest in Nagpur earlier today. They were demonstrating at the District Collector's office when a minor conflict arose between the two groups, which was quickly resolved.
However, later in the evening, a larger crowd gathered at Shivaji Chowk between 7 and 7:30 p.m., where they began chanting slogans in response to the earlier protest. As tensions escalated, another group in the vicinity also began to chant slogans. The police were deployed to the area to ensure law and order, aiming to prevent any further escalation.
Despite police efforts to restore calm, tensions remained high as both groups continued their chanting and were pushed back from Shivaji Chowk towards Chitnis Park. Reports indicate that some participants from one group began throwing stones at the large police presence in the area. In response, law enforcement attempted to control the situation using force, but due to the severe stone pelting, they resorted to deploying tear gas. Several vehicles were damaged, and some were set ablaze during this unrest.
Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis urged Nagpur residents to cooperate fully with local authorities. "We are in continuous communication with the police, and it’s vital for citizens to support them. Nagpur is known for its peaceful spirit and community solidarity. In such times, avoid believing rumors and work with the authorities," he stated in his appeal.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also called upon citizens to assist the administration in maintaining peace and to refrain from believing misinformation.
Congress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar echoed similar sentiments, urging Nagpur's population to uphold peace and prevent any incidents of violence.
“Nagpur has a reputation for being a peaceful city, but it has faced attacks from organizations affiliated with the ruling party. This unrest stems from outrageous statements made by cabinet ministers. The Chief Minister must promptly remove these individuals from their positions. The government appears to be inciting discord and fostering animosity between communities,” he claimed.
