On Wednesday, Fahim Shamim Khan, a prominent local leader from the Minorities Democratic Party (MDP), was arrested by Nagpur Police for his involvement in the communal violence that broke out on March 17. Khan, identified as the alleged mastermind behind the riots, had earlier been named in an FIR lodged at Ganeshpeth Police Station. His arrest followed the release of a video that showed him giving an inflammatory speech moments before the violence began.
The unrest in Nagpur began when rumors spread regarding the desecration of a community’s holy book during a protest by Hindu groups like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. As the protests grew in intensity, they spiraled into violent clashes, with mobs attacking police officers and vandalising property. In the aftermath, over 30 police personnel were injured, and the situation quickly worsened.
Police Registers Multiple FIRs
Authorities confirmed that the violence spread across multiple areas in Nagpur, including Mahal and Hasanpuri, leading to a heavy police presence in the city. Over 2,000 armed personnel have been deployed to restore order, and curfews remain in place in several sensitive areas. Police have registered multiple cases, and several individuals have been detained for their role in the disturbances.
Adding to the chaos, an FIR was also filed after an on-duty female police officer was allegedly molested during the violence. According to the FIR, the accused man touched the officer and made inappropriate gestures.
Prominent Political Leaders Condemns the Situation
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde have both condemned the violence, with Shinde referring to the incident as a “premeditated conspiracy.” Shinde further drew a controversial comparison, saying that like the U.S. disposing of Osama bin Laden’s body to prevent glorification, the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb should be considered to avoid honoring a controversial historical figure.
As investigations continue, Nagpur remains on edge, with the police striving to control the situation and restore peace to the city.
