Nagpur Violence Erupts Over Aurangzeb Tomb Protest, Curfew Enforced

Clashes described as premeditated leave dozens injured, with arrests made and investigations into misinformation underway.

Protests by right-wing groups demanding the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb escalated into violent clashes in Nagpur's Mahal area on March 17, 2025.
Rumors of a holy book's desecration fueled tensions, leading to arson, stone-pelting, and attacks on police, with 33 officers injured, including senior personnel.
Authorities imposed curfews and prohibitory orders under Section 144 in affected areas, detaining over 50 individuals and deploying heavy police forces to restore order.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde described the violence as preplanned, citing evidence of stockpiled stones and targeted attacks.
Investigations are focusing on the role of social media in spreading misinformation, while political leaders trade accusations over intelligence failures and inflammatory rhetoric.