Three incidents triggered the violence in Nagpur. Protests by the VHP-Bajrang Dal, post-prayer protests, and evening stone-pelting and arson significantly deteriorated the situation. 47 individuals were detained.
Nagpur Violence: Violence erupted in Nagpur on Monday evening (March 17) and continued late into the night, injuring several police officers. The FIR filed in this case mentions three major incidents that escalated the situation.
VHP-Bajrang Dal Protest Sparks Conflict
According to the FIR, 200-250 workers of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal protested in the Ganeshpeth police station area on Monday morning, demanding the removal of Aurangzeb's news. A symbolic grave was reportedly burned during this protest. Following this, a case was registered against the VHP and Bajrang Dal workers.
Muslim Community Protest After Prayers
In the afternoon, 200-250 members of the Muslim community gathered near the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and expressed their anger after prayers. They alleged that the burned symbolic grave was covered with green cloth bearing Quranic verses. Following this incident, the crowd turned aggressive and threatened arson.
Violence Escalates in the Evening
To control the situation, the police summoned some members of the Muslim community at 3 PM, registered their complaint, and assured strict action, sending the crowd away. However, violence erupted in the evening. A mob of approximately 200-300 people in the Hansapur area started shouting slogans, pelting stones, and setting things on fire.
First Clash at Agrasen Chowk
According to the FIR, the first major clash occurred at Agrasen Chowk around 11 AM when two groups confronted each other, resulting in stone-pelting. Six motorcycles and two cars were damaged, and one person was injured. Half an hour later, at the same location, an 18-year-old youth named Raja Khan was severely injured after being attacked on the head.
Violence Intensifies After 7 PM
Around 7:30 PM, the violence intensified. The angry mob set fire to a crane, two JCBs, and three vehicles. Additionally, 20 motorcycles and a government vehicle were damaged.
47 People Detained
Police officers were also injured in the violence. Three DCPs, one ACP, 14 police officers, and 15 police personnel were injured. Police took strict action, detaining 47 people. Two seriously injured individuals are hospitalized.
