Nagpur Violence: Deputy CM Eknath Shinde Warns of Stern Action Against Rioters

Nagpur witnessed violent clashes on Monday night, leading to heightened political tensions in Maharashtra. While the opposition blamed the ruling government for the unrest, the state administration claimed it was a well-planned conspiracy. Addressing the Legislative Council on Tuesday, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stated that the riots were pre-planned and that an inquiry would be conducted to identify those responsible. "Those who attacked the police will not be spared they will be held accountable," Shinde warned.

During the violence, 35 policemen, including three Deputy Commissioners of Police, were injured in the attacks by rioters. The Nagpur incident sparked an uproar in the Legislative Council, leading Speaker Prof. Ram Shinde to adjourn proceedings twice. Opposition leader Ambadas Danve, while moving an adjournment motion, questioned the state's law and order situation. He said, "The Nagpur incident raises serious concerns. Police were attacked, shops were set on fire, and vehicles were torched. Instead of taking action, government ministers are making irresponsible statements. Spreading communal hatred in the state is unacceptable."

On the other hand, BJP leader A. Praveen Darekar echoed the government's stance, asserting that the violence was pre-planned and demanding a thorough investigation to identify the mastermind behind the unrest. Responding to the opposition’s criticism, Deputy CM Shinde alleged that deliberate conspiracies were being orchestrated to destabilize Maharashtra. "In the last few days, unfortunate incidents have been triggered by rumors. Maharashtra will not tolerate the glorification of Aurangzeb. The traces of aggressors in the state must be erased," he declared.

The repercussions of the Nagpur violence were strongly felt within the Vidhan Bhavan premises. Ruling party MLAs staged a protest on the Vidhan Bhavan steps, demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. Meanwhile, the opposition called for the expulsion of Minister Nitesh Rane from the cabinet. As MLAs from both sides came face to face, a tense standoff ensued, further intensifying the political divide over the incident.