Nagpur witnessed violent clashes on Monday night after protests against Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb turned violent. The unrest erupted in the Chitnis Park area of Mahal around 7:30 PM, with rioters hurling stones at police amid rumors that a religious text had been burned during a right-wing agitation demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district.
Woman constable attacked
During the violence, a woman constable of the Riot Control Police (RCP) was allegedly assaulted by rioters who attempted to disrobe her. Officials reported that a group of attackers took advantage of the darkness to inappropriately touch the officer, make vulgar remarks, and direct abusive language toward other female police personnel. The rioters also made objectionable gestures and launched a physical attack on them.
Petrol bombs thrown at police
The mob escalated its aggression by throwing petrol bombs and stones at police officers. Law enforcement authorities registered five FIRs across different police stations in connection with the violence. At Ganeshpeth police station, a case was filed against rioters who gathered at Bhaldarpura Chowk, attacking officers with petrol bombs and stones.
51 arrested
In response to the violent outbreak, police have arrested 51 individuals so far and invoked 57 sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against them. Law enforcement continues to conduct investigations to identify more culprits involved in the rioting.
Curfew imposed
To prevent further escalation, curfew remains in force in several sensitive areas of Nagpur. Authorities have urged citizens to maintain peace and cooperate with law enforcement as efforts to restore normalcy continue.
(With PTI inputs)