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Nagpur has been experiencing unrest following a protest demanding the removal of Aurangzeb's grave. The tension in the city led the authorities to impose a curfew under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to control the situation and maintain public order. The curfew affects several areas and will remain in place until the situation improves.
Protests Lead to Curfew
The curfew was enforced after around 200-250 members of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal gathered near the Shivaji Maharaj statue in Mahal, Nagpur, on March 17. The protesters were chanting slogans and carrying cow dung cakes as a symbol while demanding the removal of Aurangzeb's grave. Later in the evening, another crowd of 80-100 people gathered in Bhaldarpura, increasing tension among residents and causing disruptions to traffic.
To prevent further disturbances, Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Kumar Singal declared a curfew, restricting movement in areas like Kotwali and Ganeshpeth and prohibiting gatherings. The situation is being closely monitored by the police.
Strict Measures to Maintain Peace
To restore peace, authorities have imposed strict measures, including a "communication ban (curfew)" under Section 163. Residents are not allowed to leave their homes except for medical emergencies. Any gathering of more than five people is banned, and spreading rumors is strictly prohibited.
The police have been given the authority to close roads and take action against violators under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). However, exemptions have been granted to essential service workers, including on-duty police officers, government officials, and fire brigade staff.
Violence and Vandalism in Nagpur
The unrest in Nagpur also led to violent incidents in the Hansapuri area, where unidentified individuals vandalized shops, set vehicles on fire, and threw stones. The violence is believed to have started after a photo was burned, leading to heated tensions in the Mahal area.
Eyewitnesses reported that a group of people wearing scarves and carrying weapons caused panic among locals. The police are now investigating the damage and working to identify those involved.
Authorities Take Action
Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Kumar Singal assured the public that the situation is now under control. He stated that the police urged the protestors to disperse, and action was taken accordingly. A First Information Report (FIR) has been filed based on the names provided by the protestors, and combing operations are being conducted to find those responsible for the violence.
To further ensure peace, Section 144 has been imposed, restricting gatherings in the city. Authorities have also advised residents to remain indoors until the situation normalizes.
The unrest in Nagpur, triggered by protests and violent incidents, has led to a major law enforcement response. The curfew and strict restrictions aim to restore order and prevent further disturbances. Authorities are working to address public concerns and ensure the safety of all residents.
