Nagpur violence over Aurangzeb's tomb was premeditated, claims BJP leader
What's the story
Over 30 people were injured in violent clashes in Nagpur on Monday evening. The unrest came after after Hindu groups held a protest demanding removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb's tomb in Maharashtra's Sambhaji Nagar. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has now alleged that the violence was premeditated. BJP MLA from Nagpur Central Pravin Datke, who visited the site of the incident, said the "violence was carried out with weapons in a preplanned manner."
Arrests made
60-65 rioters arrested, several injured
The violence left 25-30 personnel injured, and nearly 60-65 rioters have been taken into custody. The clash took place in the city's Mahal area where about 25 bikes and three cars were burnt. Datke alleged a large section of the mob was from outside, and accused the police of not standing by Hindu citizens during the violence.
Official response
CM office assures citizens that police are managing situation
Maharashtra CM's office has assured citizens that police are handling the situation after incidents of stone-pelting and tension escalated in Nagpur's Mahal locality. "Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has appealed to citizens to fully cooperate with the administration," said a statement from the CM office. However, Nagpur Police Commissioner Dr Ravinder Singal confirmed that the situation in the city is currently peaceful, but unrest erupted after a photo was burnt.
Eyewitness accounts
Eyewitnesses report quick escalation of tensions
Eyewitnesses said tensions spread fast, resulting in damage to public property and torching of vehicles. Videos from the site depicted burning vehicles and debris strewn across the area. Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray, Congress leader Pawan Khera, and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi blamed the state government over Nagpur's law and order situation after the violent clashes. Authorities are examining CCTV footage and other video clips to identify those involved in the violence.