Section 144 has been imposed in Nagpur following violent clashes between two groups in the Mahal area on Monday. The clashes resulted in vandalism, arson, and several vehicles being set on fire. Reports of stone pelting created panic among local residents, with videos from the scene showing burning vehicles and scattered debris.
Nagpur Police Commissioner Dr. Ravinder Singal confirmed that the situation is currently under control. "A photo was burned, which led to people gathering. They made requests, and we took action. An FIR has been lodged based on the names mentioned. Action will be taken against those involved," Singal said. He also confirmed that two vehicles had been torched, and stone pelting had occurred. "Police are conducting combing operations. Those involved are being identified and arrested," he added.
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Singal urged residents not to step out unnecessarily and reassured them that the situation was peaceful outside the affected area. "We have imposed Section 144. Do not step out unless necessary and avoid taking the law into your own hands. Do not believe rumours. The entire city, except for this area, is peaceful," he said.
The unrest began earlier in the day when a protest demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb took place in Nagpur. Organized by Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, the protest involved burning an effigy of Aurangzeb and tearing posters. The protest led to tensions in the Mahal area, which escalated later into clashes between two groups.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis appealed for peace and urged residents to cooperate with the authorities. "The manner in which the situation became tense in Mahal area of Nagpur is highly condemnable. A few people pelted stones, even at the Police. This is wrong. I am keeping an eye on the situation. I have told the Police Commissioner to take whatever strict steps are necessary to maintain law and order. If someone riots or pelts stones at Police or creates tensions in society, strict action should be taken against all such people. I appeal to everyone to behave to ensure that the peace of Nagpur is not disturbed. If someone attempts to create tension, very strict action will be taken against them," Maharashtra CM said.