Nagpur Violence / Why violence broke out in Nagpur, what was the rumour that set the city on fire

Nagpur Violence: Nagpur, which is considered a symbol of peace and cultural harmony, was suddenly hit by violence on Monday. The situation worsened after a rumour spread that a religious text was burnt during a protest to remove Aurangzeb's tomb. The tension arising from the incident shook the city, in which nine people including three policemen were injured.

Beginning of violence and sequence of events

Late on Monday evening, Bajrang Dal members protested near the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the Mahal area. Then a rumour spread that a religious text was burnt during the agitation. The video, which was rapidly circulated on social media, sparked outrage in the Muslim community, and within no time the mob took to the streets.

The police immediately took action to control the situation, but the situation went out of control. From Chitnis Park to Shukrawari Talab Road, the violence reached its peak. The rioters vandalised shops, set vehicles on fire and also attacked the police force. To bring the situation under control, the police had to resort to lathicharge and tear gas shells.

Curfew imposed in the city

In view of the situation, the police administration imposed indefinite curfew in sensitive areas of Nagpur - Kotwali, Ganeshpeth, Lakadganj, Pachpavli, Shantinagar, Sakkardara, Nandanvan, Imamwada, Yashodhara Nagar and Kapil Nagar. Police Commissioner Dr. Ravindra Kumar Singal clarified that the curfew will remain in effect till further orders.

Police and administration action

Three policemen, including Deputy Commissioner of Police Niketan Kadam, were seriously injured in this violence. 15 people involved in the violence were arrested and the search operation is on. Quick Reaction Team (QRT), Riot Control Police, and State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) have been deployed.

Political rhetoric and social reaction

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari appealed to maintain peace. The Chief Minister said that the administration is making every effort to control the situation.

At the same time, Congress leader Harshvardhan Sapkal termed this violence as a failure of the Home Department. He alleged that provocative speeches were being given for the last few days, which created a tense situation. Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aditya Thackeray also questioned the law and order of the state government.

Challenge to social harmony

According to eyewitnesses, the violence seemed to be well planned. Masked miscreants attacked shops and houses, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty in the city.

Nagpur, which has always been a center of peace and unity, stands at a critical juncture after this violence. The administration, police and common citizens need to deal with this crisis together so that such incidents can be avoided in future.

Conclusion

The fire of rumors and discontent spread on social media shook Nagpur. This incident is proof that the impact of rumors cannot be taken lightly. In the midst of this crisis, it is the responsibility of every citizen to maintain peace and harmony. The administration should also handle the situation with transparency and take strict action against the culprits. Only in this way can we move forward towards a strong and harmonious society.