Nagpur remains on high alert as curfew continues following violent clashes that erupted over protests against Mughal ruler Aurangzeb's tomb. The unrest has resulted in the arrest of over 50 people and injuries to 33 police personnel, including senior officials.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis claimed the violence was "premeditated" and linked it to the emotional response triggered by the film Chhaava, which depicts Aurangzeb’s atrocities against Sambhaji Maharaj. Speaking in the Maharashtra Assembly, Fadnavis confirmed that three deputy commissioners of police were among those injured, with one officer attacked with an axe.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, in a statement in the state legislative council, criticised any glorification of Aurangzeb, calling him a "blot on history." His comments led to a heated exchange between the ruling and opposition benches.
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale echoed similar sentiments, stating that the film Chhaava had stirred public emotions, particularly concerning Aurangzeb’s role in the execution of Sambhaji Maharaj. He noted that while Aurangzeb’s grave has existed for centuries, the film had reignited outrage against him.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has demanded strict action against those involved in the violence. VHP General Secretary Milind Parande accused a section of a particular community of orchestrating the attacks and arson, alleging that homes of Bajrang Dal members were specifically targeted.
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar District Collector Dilip Swami assured that the situation was now peaceful. He also confirmed that Bajrang Dal members had submitted a petition regarding their demands, prompting police forces to remain on high alert.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray criticised the state government, accusing the BJP of attempting to create a situation similar to Manipur in Maharashtra. He questioned the delay in response from the Chief Minister’s Office, claiming that authorities failed to act despite receiving early intelligence about the violence.
Opposition parties, including Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and Trinamool Congress (TMC), have also blamed the BJP for the unrest. AAP MP Sanjay Singh accused the party of spreading hatred in Nagpur and across Maharashtra, alleging that peace cannot be maintained under BJP rule.
Nagpur Guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule acknowledged that social media played a significant role in escalating tensions. After reviewing the situation with police officials and the district administration, he urged political leaders to avoid politicising the matter and appealed for communal harmony.
The Nagpur Police have detained over 50 individuals in connection with the violence and are analysing CCTV footage and social media activity to identify others involved. Authorities are working to ensure stability in the city as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange has accused the Mahayuti government of orchestrating the violence for political motives.
He questioned the government’s stance on Aurangzeb’s tomb, alleging that while authorities protect the Mughal emperor’s grave, they simultaneously allow right-wing demands for its removal to gain traction.
As Nagpur remains under curfew, security forces continue to monitor the situation to prevent further escalation.
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