Mumbai: In a dramatic turn of events, Nagpur witnessed violent clashes in the Chitnis Park area, sparked by rumors of a religious text desecration during a protest against Aurangzeb’s tomb. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis swiftly labeled the violence as a planned conspiracy, highlighting the pivotal role of rumors in escalating tensions. The unrest involved right-wing groups like Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal, leading to significant police deployment and public unrest.
The clashes erupted on Monday in Nagpur’s Chitnis Park area, following a protest by right-wing groups demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. Rumors of a religious text being desecrated fueled the violence, despite Bajrang Dal denying these allegations. The situation quickly spiralled out of control as police were attacked with stones, and several vehicles were torched in the ensuing violence.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the attack on police as a planned conspiracy, emphasizing that no one has the right to take law and order into their own hands. In response to the violence, five criminal cases have been registered, and prohibitory orders have been imposed in 11 police station areas. The clashes resulted in injuries to both police personnel and civilians, with significant property damage reported.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis appealed for peace, urging citizens not to believe in rumors. The government’s swift response included deploying five SRPF units to maintain order. The incident has raised questions about community tensions and the role of political figures in addressing such conflicts.
