Violent clashes broke out in Nagpur on Monday after protests demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb escalated into unrest. Members of Hindu organizations, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, participated in the demonstrations. Hours later, tensions flared, leading to incidents of arson and stone-pelting. Authorities confirmed that 15 police personnel and five civilians were injured in the violence, while 17 individuals have been taken into custody.

Authorities Blame Rumors for Unrest

The Nagpur Police stated that the clashes were triggered by misinformation. Earlier reports suggested that a religious cloth inscribed with the ‘kalma’ had been burned during the protest. However, police later clarified that no such incident had occurred and that false rumors fueled tensions in the city.

Vehicles Set Ablaze, Police Use Tear Gas to Disperse Crowd

Eyewitnesses reported that as tensions escalated, several vehicles were set on fire, and stones were hurled at residential properties and public infrastructure. Around 25 to 30 two-wheelers and multiple cars were torched. Protesters also set a JCB machine on fire.

#WATCH | Nagpur (Maharashtra) violence: A JCB machine set ablaze during violence in Mahal area of Nagpur. Tensions have broken out here following a dispute between two groups.

Police personnel and Fire Brigade officials are present at the spot. pic.twitter.com/JHrxAMIbCm

— ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2025

Videos from the scene showed burning vehicles and scattered debris, while officials worked to contain the situation. The police used tear gas and carried out baton charges to disperse the crowd in the Chitnis Park and Mahal areas, which were the most affected by the violence.

#WATCH | Nagpur (Maharashtra) violence: Police undertake combing operation in Mahal. Tensions broke out in Mahal area of Nagpur following a dispute between two groups.

Those involved are being identified and arrested. Section 144 has been imposed. Police have directed people… pic.twitter.com/PLg0HQRPjf

— ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2025

Security Reinforced, Cyber Police Monitor Misinformation

The Nagpur rural police were called in for additional support. Meanwhile, cyber police have been deployed to track and counter the spread of fake news that could further escalate tensions. Officials are actively monitoring social media platforms to curb the spread of misinformation.

A senior fire department officer, who was present at the scene, described the intensity of the situation. “We were caught between the crowd and the administration. Two JCB machines were burned, and stone pelting injured one of our officers,” he told PTI.

Government Leaders Appeal for Peace

Union Minister and Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari also appealed for calm, urging citizens not to fall prey to rumors. “Due to certain rumors, a situation of religious tension has arisen in Nagpur,” he said in a video statement.

#WATCH | Nagpur (Maharashtra) violence: Union Minister and Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari says, "Due to certain rumors, a situation of religious tension has arisen in Nagpur. The city's history is known for maintaining peace in such matters. I urge all my brothers not to believe in any… pic.twitter.com/1xF8YnOIMk

— ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2025

He emphasized the city’s history of maintaining peace and urged people to refrain from participating in further violence. “Please do not come out onto the streets unnecessarily. Cooperate with the law and order system,” he added.

Gadkari reassured citizens that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the violence. “The Chief Minister has been informed about the situation, and I request everyone to ignore rumors,” he said.

The Maharashtra Chief Minister’s Office also issued a statement confirming that police forces are managing the situation. “Nagpur has always been a peaceful city. Citizens should not believe in rumors and should assist authorities in maintaining law and order,” the statement read.