Tensions High in Nagpur: Curfew Extends to 2nd Day as City Sees Violence
Nagpur Aurangzeb Tomb Violence LIVE News | Curfew In Nagpur Today Latest News Updates: Maharashtra DGP Rashmi Shukla has instructed district SPs to take even minor incidents that may instigate unrest in the state very seriously and curb them before they grow.
Nagpur, March 19:
Curfew was still in effect for the second day running across 10 police station boundaries in Nagpur on Wednesday after violent clashes that followed protests against Aurangzeb‘s mausoleum in Khuldabad. Over 50 individuals have been arrested thus far as officials strive to regain order.
To avoid further agitation, Maharashtra DGP Rashmi Shukla instructed district SPs to adopt stringent measures, asking them to tackle even petty incidents that have the potential to ignite unrest. She also told police officers to enhance street presence and ensure stringent bandobast arrangements are undertaken.
What Triggers the Violence?
The agitation started after the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) organized demonstrations at government offices, handing over memorandums calling for the demolition of Aurangzeb‘s mausoleum. The VHP memorandum recalled historical grievances by mentioning Aurangzeb’s atrocities against Sikh guru Guru Gobind Singh‘s sons, Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, and the destruction of temples at Kashi, Mathura, and Somnath.
CM Fadnavis‘ Reaction:
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that the violence seemed to be premeditated. He attributed the increased emotions to the release of the film Chhava, which depicts Aurangzeb‘s atrocities on Sambhaji Maharaj. Although conceding that Aurangzeb‘s tomb is a protected monument, Fadnavis reiterated that the government would not permit any efforts to glorify the legacy of Aurangzeb.
