Violent clashes erupt in Nagpur over Aurangzeb' tomb, curfew imposed

Nagpur descended into chaos on March 17 as violent clashes erupted over unverified claims of a holy book’s desecration during a protest against Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb.

In response, authorities imposed a curfew across multiple areas, citing law and order issues and urgent concerns over public safety.

Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Singhal enforced the curfew under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) on March 17 night, restricting movement and banning gatherings of more than five people.

The curfew will remain in effect until further notice in areas under the jurisdiction of ten police stations, including Kotwali, Ganeshpeth, and Lakadganj. Exceptions have been made for medical emergencies and essential services.

The unrest began when a demonstration led by over 200 members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal near the Shivaji Maharaj statue demanded the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khuldabad.

Protesters reportedly burned an effigy of the Mughal ruler, but rumors quickly spread on social media alleging that a holy book had been desecrated during the event.

As tensions escalated, a mob of 80-100 people allegedly gathered unlawfully and began pelting stones at the police. The violence spread to multiple areas, including Chitnis Park, Mahal, Kotwali, and Ganeshpeth. Police resorted to tear gas and baton charges to disperse the crowd. The clashes left four policemen injured and saw several vehicles torched in the mayhem.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also oversees the Home portfolio, and Union Minister and Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari have appealed for calm, urging citizens to maintain peace and refrain from spreading misinformation.

Authorities have warned of strict action against those violating curfew orders, including legal consequences under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Meanwhile, law enforcement continues to monitor the situation closely, with assurances that every measure is being taken to restore normalcy in the city.