Curfew Imposed in Nagpur Amid Tensions Over Aurangzeb’s Grave
A curfew has been imposed in several parts of Nagpur city under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) after escalating tensions over demands to remove Aurangzeb’s grave, according to an official notification from the Maharashtra Police.
Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Kumar Singal issued an order stating that the curfew would remain in effect until further notice, restricting public movement in key areas, including:
The tensions began on March 17, when 200-250 members of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal gathered near Shivaji Maharaj’s statue in Mahal, Nagpur, demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s grave. The protesters chanted slogans and displayed a green cloth filled with cow dung cakes as a symbolic gesture.
By 7:30 PM, a counter-protest erupted in Bhaldarpura, with 80-100 people gathering, causing disruption to public movement and increasing tensions in the area.
As a result, Nagpur Police imposed a “communication ban (curfew)” under Section 163 to prevent further unrest and maintain order.
“During the curfew period, no person should leave their house unless for medical emergencies. Gatherings of more than five people are prohibited, and spreading rumors or engaging in unlawful activities is strictly banned,” the official order stated.
Anyone violating the curfew will face punishment under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The restrictions do not apply to police officers, government employees, students appearing for essential exams, and emergency service personnel.
Despite curfew measures, violence erupted in Nagpur’s Hansapuri area, where masked individuals vandalized shops, torched vehicles, and pelted stones.
An eyewitness described the chaotic scene, saying:
“A group with covered faces arrived, wielding sharp weapons, sticks, and bottles. They started a ruckus, vandalized shops, and set fire to vehicles.”
Another local confirmed:
“They torched 8-10 vehicles and damaged several properties.”
Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Kumar Singal assured residents that law enforcement is working to restore order.
“The situation is peaceful right now. A photo was burned, which led to people gathering. We requested them to disperse and took action. FIRs have been registered, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
He further stated:
“The violence occurred around 8-8:30 PM. Two vehicles were set on fire, and stone pelting took place. We are assessing the damage, conducting combing operations, and arresting those involved.”
Authorities have imposed Section 144, restricting gatherings and urging people to stay indoors and avoid rumors.
“Except for this affected area, the rest of the city remains peaceful,” Singal added.
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