Late-Night Violence Erupts in Nagpur's Hanspuri; Arson, Vandalism, and Stone-Throwing Reported.
Maharashtra News: Tension remains high in Nagpur, Maharashtra, following a clash in the Mahal area that escalated into violence in Hanspuri. Unidentified rioters vandalized shops, set vehicles ablaze, and engaged in stone-throwing. Following the deterioration of the situation, authorities imposed a curfew in several areas.
Shops and Vehicles Attacked in Hanspuri
Reports indicate that late at night, masked assailants wreaked havoc in Nagpur's Hanspuri area. The rioters vandalized shops, set vehicles on fire, and threw stones. Tensions had already been high following a clash between two groups in the Mahal area earlier.
According to an eyewitness, "A group suddenly appeared, their faces covered with scarves. They carried sharp weapons, sticks, and bottles. They attacked shops, threw stones, and set vehicles on fire."
Local Residents Confirm Violence
Another local resident corroborated the violence, stating, "The rioters extensively vandalized shops and set approximately 8-10 vehicles on fire."
Congress MP Condemns the Attack
Congress MP Shyamkumar Barve from Delhi condemned the violence and appealed for peace. He stated,
"Hindu-Muslim clashes have never occurred in Nagpur. I appeal to all communities to maintain peace. These incidents are an attempt to divert attention from the main issues."
Police Commissioner's Statement
Nagpur's Police Commissioner, Dr. Ravinder Singhal, assured citizens that the situation is now under control. He stated that the incident occurred between 8:00 PM and 8:30 PM.
"The situation is now peaceful. A crowd gathered after an image was burnt. We persuaded them to disperse and have taken action in this regard. FIRs are being registered based on complaints, and the accused are being arrested."
Section 144 Imposed; Appeal to Ignore Rumors
Police have launched a search operation to identify and arrest those involved in the violence. As a precaution, the administration has imposed Section 144, prohibiting gatherings of four or more people.