Nagpur Violence: Eyewitness Accounts and Political Reactions

Nagpur experienced significant violence linked to VHP protests over Aurangzeb’s tomb, resulting in vandalism and vehicle fires. Eyewitnesses criticized the delayed police response, with claims of the violence being pre-planned. BJP leaders expressed outrage over the targeting of Hindu properties. Chief Minister Fadnavis has committed to a thorough investigation into these incidents.

Residents of Nagpur witnessed severe violence last night, with reports of vandalism and vehicle fires following a protest by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. Eyewitnesses indicated that police response was delayed, prompting accusations from local BJP lawmakers who claimed Hindu citizens were abandoned during the unrest.

The conflict erupted around 7:30 PM in Chitnis Park, where demonstrators engaged in stone-throwing and injuring several individuals. A mob vandalized properties in the Old Hislop College area, breaking windows and causing significant damage before escaping. Later, additional violence was reported in Hansapuri, where more vehicles were torched, and a curfew was imposed to prevent further gatherings.

Sharad Gupta, a local grocery store owner, described the chaos, highlighting how residents defended their properties. He noted, “I called the police multiple times, but they came after the culprits ran away.” Others, like Chandrakant Kawde, reported extensive damage to personal property, emphasizing the lack of immediate police intervention during the conflict.

Reports indicated that the assailants were masked and armed with rods, creating further panic. Residents mentioned that the group specifically targeted Hindu-owned properties. BJP MLA Pravin Datke labeled the attack as pre-planned and suggested that external participants instigated the violence, insisting that police inadequately safeguarded the community.

In the aftermath, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis vowed to investigate the matter, describing the violence as a premeditated conspiracy. With over 33 police personnel injured, including deputies, and assurances for action made, tensions remain high as the city attempts to restore order after the disturbances.

The violence in Nagpur, triggered by a protest regarding Aurangzeb’s tomb, resulted in significant property damage and injuries. Residents described an alarming delay in police response, prompting concerns over public safety. Political leaders claim the events were premeditated attacks directed at specific communities. As investigations proceed, local authorities aim to address security failures and prevent future occurrences.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com