Photo by Pawel Janiak on Unsplash
The city of Nagpur remains under curfew for the second consecutive day, with restrictions imposed in ten police station jurisdictions. This follows a violent outbreak that occurred on March 17, resulting in significant disturbances across various parts of the city. Law enforcement agencies have been deployed to maintain order and authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further escalation.
Legal Action Initiated Against Accused Individuals
To address the violence, a First Information Report (FIR) has been officially registered under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with additional charges under the Arms Act, Maharashtra Police Act, and the Prevention of Public Property Damage Act. The complaint, lodged at Ganeshpeth Police Station by Inspector Jitendra Baburao Gadge, specifically names 51 individuals including minors as being involved in the unrest. These individuals primarily belong to neighborhoods such as Jafar Nagar, Tajbagh, Mominpura, and Bhalaadapura in Nagpur city.
Details of the Violent Incident
According to the FIR, the protest took a violent turn when the assembled crowd began pelting stones and throwing petrol bombs at police officers. Law enforcement personnel reportedly faced attacks with deadly weapons such as axes and iron rods. Despite repeated warnings to disperse peacefully, the rioters continued their aggressive actions by endangering both police officials and local residents.
Shocking Allegations of Misconduct
The FIR further reveals a deeply disturbing incident that occurred during the violence. Taking advantage of the chaos and darkness, one of the accused allegedly attempted to remove the uniform and harass a woman police officer from the RCP squad who was on duty at the time. Additionally, obscene gestures were reportedly made towards other female police personnel. This incident has added to the severity of the case and has been formally documented in the FIR.
Government's Response to the Unrest
In response to the escalating situation, Union Minister Prahlad Joshi assured that the Maharashtra government is taking strict measures against those responsible for inciting violence and causing disorder in the city. Authorities are determined to hold the culprits accountable and restore peace in the affected areas. With security forces maintaining a heavy presence and legal actions underway, the administration remains focused on bringing the situation under control and ensuring justice for those affected by the violence.
Maharashtra Government Takes Strict Action Against Nagpur Violence
- Government's Response to the Unrest: Union Minister Prahlad Joshi assured on that the Maharashtra government is taking firm action against those responsible for the recent violence in Nagpur, which led to significant unrest in parts of the city. Addressing the situation, Joshi emphasized that the government is handling the matter effectively and stressed that such incidents should not occur.
"It is not about this party or that party—whoever is guilty, the Maharashtra government is taking action against them," Joshi stated, reinforcing the administration's commitment to justice.
- BJP Leaders Condemn Violence: Several Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MPs also voiced their concerns over the clashes, which erupted amid demands for the removal of Aurangzeb's grave. BJP MP Ashok Chavan described the violence as a “sad incident” but assured that the situation has been brought under control.
"Police have managed to control the situation, but such communal disturbances should not occur in a progressive state like Maharashtra. The government has acted swiftly, detaining multiple individuals. A thorough investigation will reveal the truth," Chavan told ANI.
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde on Investigation
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde condemned the violence and called for peace, while also indicating that authorities are probing whether the incident was a pre-planned conspiracy.
"The Nagpur incident is unfortunate. Police are investigating whether this was orchestrated in advance. Many individuals came from outside the city, and petrol bombs were thrown. Even senior police officers were injured in the attack," Shinde revealed.
He further added that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is closely monitoring the situation, and strict action will be taken against those responsible.
The state government has urged citizens to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions. Law enforcement agencies continue to maintain a strong presence in the affected areas, ensuring that order is fully restored.
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