Clashes Erupt in Nagpur Over Demands to Remove Aurangzeb’s Tomb; Fadnavis and Gadkari Urge for Peace.
Nagpur:
Tensions escalated in Nagpur’s Mahal area on Monday after violent clashes broke out between two groups over the demands to remove the tomb of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The incident, which followed a protest led by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), resulted in vehicles being torched, including fire brigade vehicles, and several firemen sustaining injuries.
The protest by the VHP, calling for the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb, led to a confrontation between two groups, heightening communal tension in the city. Local authorities were forced to deploy police to control the situation as the unrest spread across the area.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the situation later, urging calm and peace amidst the escalating violence. “It is unfortunate that the state government has had to protect the tomb of Aurangzeb despite his history of persecution,” Fadnavis remarked. However, he emphasized that the glorification of the late Emperor would not be allowed. The demand for the removal of the tomb, located in Chhatrapati Sambaji Nagar, has been a point of contention in parts of Maharashtra, with rising calls for its demolition.
Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, who represents Nagpur in Parliament, also made a public appeal for peace and harmony. Speaking to the media, Gadkari condemned the situation and urged people to ignore rumors that were exacerbating religious tensions in the city. “Nagpur is known for its history of communal harmony, and I appeal to all my brothers to not heed to rumors and maintain peace. Do not take to the streets,” Gadkari said.
He further called on residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and to uphold Nagpur’s tradition of peace and harmony. “I assure you all that the government will take action against those who indulge in illegal activities. Let us work together to preserve the atmosphere of love and unity in our city,” Gadkari added.
The conflict is reflective of the growing divide in Maharashtra over the issue of historical figures and their legacies. As protests continue, local authorities are working to defuse tensions and ensure that law and order are maintained in the region.
