Tensions gripped Nagpur on Monday night as violence erupted following a protest by a right-wing group demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb. The unrest, fueled by rumors that a holy book had been burned during the demonstration, led to clashes between groups, stone-pelting, and the vandalism of properties. As a result, authorities imposed a curfew and invoked Section 144 in multiple areas to restore order.
The situation escalated in the Chitnis Park area, where reports emerged of mobs targeting homes, vehicles, and even a local clinic. Residents, caught in the crossfire of political and ideological disputes, faced a night of fear and uncertainty. Police forces were deployed in large numbers, working through the night to bring the situation under control. By Tuesday morning, officials reassured the public that peace had been restored, but tensions remain high in the affected neighborhoods.
Political leaders from various factions weighed in on the incident, with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde denouncing those who praise Aurangzeb as “traitors,” drawing a sharp contrast between the Mughal ruler and Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The Shiv Sena (UBT) mouthpiece Saamana criticized BJP leaders for their inflammatory remarks, accusing them of stoking communal discord for political gains. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi questioned the timing of the unrest, alleging that such incidents are used as distractions from pressing governance issues and economic challenges in Maharashtra.
On the other side of the political spectrum, BJP MP Anil Bonde suggested that the violence was orchestrated to malign the government led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He alleged that criminal elements were deliberately instigated to create unrest, pointing fingers at opposition leaders for their remarks on Aurangzeb’s historical role.
The violence in Nagpur is the latest in a series of politically charged conflicts that have stirred Maharashtra in recent years. The incident underscores the deep-seated historical and ideological divisions that continue to influence contemporary politics. While leaders exchange accusations, ordinary citizens—shopkeepers, students, and families—are left grappling with fear and damage to their homes and livelihoods.
Authorities have so far arrested 15 individuals in connection with the violence and have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel while curfew restrictions remain in place. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the city can fully return to normalcy or if further tensions will reignite the flames of unrest.
