Nagpur violence: Curfew imposed after clashes over Aurangzeb's tomb
What's the story
Curfew has been imposed in parts of Maharashtra's Nagpur after violent clashes erupted on Monday over a protest seeking the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb.
The violence left several houses vandalized, a medical clinic set on fire, and many vehicles burnt.
Six people and three policemen were injured in the violence.
The first clash broke out in Chitnis Park at around 7:30pm and spread to the Hansapuri area near Old Bhandara Road between 10:30 and 11:30pm.
Response
Police take control as violence spreads
Reports say stones were pelted at cops when they tried to bring things under control.
A fire brigade official said two JCB machines were set ablaze and several other vehicles were damaged.
In reaction to the incidents, police detained 15 people during combing operations in different localities of the Mahal area.
Restrictions
Prohibitory orders and curfew imposed
In view of the violence, prohibitory orders were imposed in many areas of Nagpur. Police imposed Section 144 and advised people against stepping out unnecessarily.
A curfew under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita was also imposed in several parts of the city.
As per an official order by Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Kumar Singal, these restrictions will remain in force till further orders.
Cause
Clashes sparked by rumors of Quran burning
According to the police commissioner's notice, on March 17, about 200-250 Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal members gathered near Shivaji Maharaj statue in Mahal, Nagpur in support of removing Aurangzeb's grave.
They raised slogans demanding its removal and showed a symbolic green cloth filled with cow dung cakes.
Other reports also suggest that a green cloth with sacred verses was burnt during the protest, leading to tension in the area.
Appeal
Chief Minister appeals for calm
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has appealed for calm and urged residents to cooperate with police and avoid spreading rumors.
"Police are managing the situation following stone pelting and tense situation in Mahal area," he said.
Union minister Nitin Gadkari also urged people to maintain peace and harmony amid the violence, emphasizing Nagpur's history of peaceful coexistence among all religions.