Nagpur Unrest: Vehicles Set Ablaze, Homes Attacked as Locals Share Disturbing Experiences
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Violence erupted in Nagpur's Mahal area over the demand to relocate Aurangzeb's tomb, resulting in vehicles set ablaze and homes attacked. Residents share their experiences as authorities impose a curfew to restore order.
Key Takeaways
- Violent clashes erupted in Nagpur's Mahal area.
- Aurangzeb's tomb relocation demand triggered unrest.
- Authorities imposed a curfew in affected regions.
- Residents reported significant property damage.
- Police have detained 50 individuals linked to the violence.
Nagpur, March 18 (NationPress) A climate of fear and anxiety has overtaken the Mahal locality in Nagpur after violent confrontations and acts of arson erupted due to demands for the removal of the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb from Maharashtra. This historic tomb, dating back to the 17th century, is located in Aurangabad, presently known as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district.
In light of the unrest, officials have enforced a curfew in several parts of Nagpur, including Kotwali, Ganeshpeth, Lakadganj, Pachpaoli, Shantinagar, Sakkardara, Nandanvan, Imamwada, Yashodhara Nagar, and Kapil Nagar, limiting movement until further notice.
Residents of Mahal shared their traumatic experiences with IANS, calling for decisive action against those accountable.
One local recounted the complete destruction of his vehicle, stating, "My car is entirely ruined. A horde of individuals stormed our lane, armed with petrol bombs and sticks. They set numerous vehicles on fire. Despite repeated calls for help, the police took time to arrive, and even the officers who did come were attacked and injured," he informed IANS.
Another eyewitness revealed that the turmoil began around 7:30 p.m. when a mob, previously dispersed from Gandhi Gate Chowk, invaded their lane, vandalizing properties, chanting slogans, and attempting to ignite houses.
"The assailants appeared to belong to a specific community and were furious at the Hindus residing here. They even attempted to break into our home and set it ablaze. The government must address this issue seriously and impose strict penalties on all those involved," he asserted.
An additional resident described a scene where approximately 200-300 rioters overwhelmed the police, injuring officers and setting vehicles on fire.
"No one could leave their homes; we were terrified for our safety. Even the 25 police officers present were unable to control the situation. My neighbor's car was incinerated, and my motorcycle was damaged," he added.
In the wake of the disturbances, Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Kumar Singal has issued a directive under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, enforcing a curfew across various police station jurisdictions.
The police notice indicates that the violence broke out after supporters of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal assembled near the statue of Shivaji Maharaj in Mahal to protest against Aurangzeb's tomb.
During the demonstration, they reportedly set fire to an image of Aurangzeb and a "symbolic grave wrapped in green cloth filled with grass."
Reports suggest that the burning of this green cloth ignited rumors that sacred texts had been incinerated, leading to violent reactions. Approximately 80-100 individuals became aggressive, throwing stones at police and igniting vehicles.
Some sources claim that knives were also hurled at security forces. The police resorted to lathi charges and tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Authorities have detained 50 individuals in connection with the violence, and a heavy police presence has been deployed to restore order.
