Authorities in the Indian city of Nagpur have imposed an indefinite curfew following violent clashes that left more than a dozen police officers injured. The unrest erupted after a Hindu group, the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), demanded the removal of a 17th-century Mughal ruler’s tomb, sparking tensions between different communities.
The clashes broke out on Monday when VHP members staged a protest, burning an effigy of Emperor Aurangzeb while chanting slogans calling for the removal of his tomb in nearby Aurangabad. The situation escalated after members of Muslim groups marched toward a police station, throwing stones at officers.
According to a police officer, speaking anonymously, the violence led to extensive property damage, with many vehicles being set ablaze. At least 15 police personnel were injured, one of whom remains in serious condition. Eyewitnesses reported that some attackers wore masks and carried sharp weapons and bottles.
In response to the escalating violence, Devendra Fadnavis, the chief minister of Maharashtra, condemned the unrest and vowed strong action.
“I have told the police commissioner to take whatever strict steps are necessary,” Fadnavis said in a video statement, urging authorities to restore peace.
The VHP, however, denied any involvement in the violence. The group’s general secretary, Milind Parande, defended their demand, stating that they seek to replace the tomb with a memorial honoring rulers from the local Maratha community.
Nagpur is the headquarters of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological parent of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The VHP is affiliated with the same network of Hindu nationalist organisations.
Critics of Modi have long accused his government of discriminating against Muslims and failing to act against groups targeting them. The government, however, has repeatedly denied these allegations.
As tensions remain high, authorities are enforcing strict security measures to prevent further violence, while efforts continue to restore normalcy in the city.
Melissa Enoch
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