Aurangzeb Tomb Row: Curfew Imposed in Nagpur Amidst Rising Tensions; Security Beefed Up

A curfew has been imposed in several parts of Nagpur after violence erupted on Monday, triggered by rumors that a holy book had been desecrated during a protest calling for the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khuldabad. The restrictions will remain in place until further notice, the police stated.

The curfew was enforced on Monday night by Police Commissioner Ravinder Singhal under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which allows authorities to take immediate action in cases of danger or nuisance. The curfew affects areas within the jurisdiction of Kotwali, Ganeshpet, Tehsil, Lakadganj, Pachpavli, Shantinagar, Sakkardara, Nandanvan, Imamwada, Yashodharanagar, and Kapilnagar police stations. 

Under the order, movement outside residences is restricted, except for medical emergencies. Gatherings of more than five people are also banned, and the spread of rumors is prohibited. Violators face legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for disobeying a public order.

The curfew order exempts essential workers, including police personnel, government officials, fire brigade staff, and students attending examinations. 

The violence on Monday began when over 200 members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal staged a protest near the Shivaji Maharaj statue, demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. While the protesters reportedly burnt an effigy of the Mughal emperor, rumors spread that a holy book had been desecrated, escalating tensions. 

The situation worsened as a group of 80-100 people gathered and allegedly engaged in stone pelting against police officers. In response, the police fired tear gas and conducted a lathi charge to disperse the crowd. The violence then spread to nearby areas like Kotwali and Ganeshpeth, causing further unrest.

Four police officers were injured, and several vehicles were set on fire during the clashes. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also oversees the Home Department, along with Union Minister and Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari, called on the public to maintain peace and harmony.

The police have assured that they are closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary steps to restore order.