Nagpur, India – March 17, 2025 – The city of Nagpur descended into turmoil on Monday as protests demanding the demolition of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb spiraled into violent clashes, leaving a trail of destruction and division. What began as a demonstration by Hindu right-wing groups, including the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, escalated into a full-blown confrontation with stone-pelting, arson, and injuries reported across multiple neighborhoods.
The unrest erupted in the early afternoon when Bajrang Dal members gathered near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in the Mahal area, vocally pressing their demand to raze Aurangzeb’s tomb, located in Khuldabad, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The groups condemned the Mughal ruler, citing his historical persecution of Hindus and the execution of Maratha leader Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj as justification for their stance. Tensions flared when rumors circulated that a copy of the Quran had been desecrated during the protest—a claim swiftly denied by Bajrang Dal leaders, who insisted they had only burned an effigy of Aurangzeb.
By late afternoon, the situation deteriorated as counter-protesters emerged, and clashes broke out in Ganeshpeth, Kotwali, and Chitnis Park. Angry mobs hurled stones at police, torched vehicles, and vandalized property, injuring at least four people, including law enforcement personnel. Authorities responded with tear gas and baton charges to disperse the crowds, while Nagpur Police imposed Section 144, banning gatherings to restore order. Over 20 individuals have been detained, with officials reviewing CCTV footage to identify those responsible for the violence.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the unrest, urging residents to remain calm and refrain from believing unverified rumors. “Nagpur has always been a beacon of peace. I appeal to all to support the administration in maintaining harmony,” he said in a statement. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the city’s tradition of unity.
The controversy has reignited debates over Aurangzeb’s legacy, a polarizing figure in Indian history. While Hindu groups view his tomb as a symbol of oppression, archaeologists argue its demolition would violate laws protecting historical monuments. As Nagpur reels from the chaos, the incident underscores the fragile intersection of history, religion, and politics in modern India, leaving authorities on high alert to prevent further escalation.
