Nagpur Riots: After Violence, Flag march to Restore Peace

---

Police conducts a flag march in violence effected areas to restore peace.

Nagpur witnessed a night of turmoil on Monday. Violent clashes broke out in the Mahal locality. This occurred just two kilometers from the heavily guarded RSS headquarters. The unrest stemmed from protests demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb. These protests spiraled out of control. They led to widespread stone-pelting, fires, and attacks on law enforcement officials.

The violence caused serious injuries to at least 10 anti-riot police commandos. It also injured two senior IPS officers and two fire brigade personnel. One police constable remains in critical condition at a government hospital. Besides the injuries, two earthmovers were set ablaze. Around 40 vehicles were also set on fire, and police vehicles faced severe damage.

Police swiftly initiated combing operations across the city and arrested at least 50 individuals involved in the violence. Meanwhile, the Union Home Ministry has requested a detailed report on the situation. This is a matter of heightened concern. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Nagpur in the coming weeks.

According to sources, the flare-up was reportedly sparked by rumors. These rumors claimed that right-wing activists had burned effigies of Aurangzeb. They also reportedly burned a religious ‘chadar’ near Shivaji Putla Square at the Mahal gate. This incident inflamed tensions, prompting large gatherings of people from another community, demanding immediate action.

The situation rapidly escalated, with protestors clashing with police forces, throwing stones, and damaging public and private property. Riot Control Police attempted to disperse the crowds at Chitnis Park Chowk. However, the confrontation quickly turned violent. This transformed the area into a conflict zone.

Senior officers DCP (Traffic) Archit Chandak and DCP (Zone 5) Niketan Kadam were among the injured. They were hurt while trying to control the crowds. Firefighters, attempting to extinguish the burning vehicles, also found themselves caught in the chaos.

Amid the violence, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari issued urgent appeals for peace. They emphasized Nagpur’s long-standing reputation for harmony. “I urge everyone to avoid rumors. Support law enforcement in restoring calm,” Fadnavis said. He assured the public that he remained in continuous contact with police officials. He was closely tracking the situation. Guardian Minister Chandrashekar Bawankule visited the troubled areas and promised strict action. “No one responsible for the violence will be spared,” he stated.

Local MLA from central Nagpur, Pravin Datke, alleged that external elements had been brought in to incite the violence. “We have asked police to identify these individuals and ensure they face severe consequences,” he said.

In response, Commissioner of Police Ravinder Singal ordered heavy reinforcements. He deployed more than 1,000 police personnel in key areas of the city. Authorities imposed curfew-like prohibitory orders. They restricted movement in sensitive zones such as Mahal, Chitnis Park Chowk, and Bhaldarpura. This was done to prevent further escalation.