Authorities in Nagpur have imposed an indefinite curfew after violent clashes erupted between Hindu and Muslim groups over the tomb of 17th-century Mughal ruler Emperor Aurangzeb. The unrest, which began on Monday night, has led to multiple injuries and significant property damage, including the torching of vehicles and the injury of at least 15 police officers, one of whom remains in critical condition.
The violence was sparked when members of the right-wing Hindu group Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) burned an effigy of Aurangzeb and his tomb in Aurangabad, demanding its removal. Muslim groups staged a protest near a police station, which reportedly escalated into stone-throwing and clashes with security personnel.
Also Read: India Defeat New Zealand to Win Champions Trophy
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the violence and called for strict action to restore peace. The VHP denied involvement in the violence, claiming their only demand is to replace Aurangzeb’s tomb with a memorial for Maratha rulers.
With Nagpur already a sensitive area due to its historical role as the headquarters of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), tensions have flared in the past. Authorities are now patrolling affected areas to prevent further violence, but the situation remains tense.
