Nagpur violence linked to Bangladesh: Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam
What's the story
Shiv Sena's Sanjay Nirupam has alleged that the violence in Nagpur on March 17 was premeditated and linked to people from Bangladesh. The unrest was caused by rumors about a burnt "chadar" inscribed with religious texts during the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) protests. The clashes resulted in stone-pelting and arson, injuring 33 police personnel, including three deputy commissioner rank officers.
Claims
Allegations of foreign involvement and anti-Hindu stance
Nirupam said at a Mumbai press conference, "The involvement of miscreants in the Nagpur violence can be traced to Bangladesh." He also alleged that one of the arrested was using social media to fund "Mujahideen activities." He then asked if Shiv Sena (UBT) was aligning itself with such groups. He also slammed the Uddhav Thackeray-led party for its perceived shift toward an "anti-Hindu" position.
Government's stance
Chief Minister Fadnavis responds to allegations
CM Devendra Fadnavis said it is too early to speak about foreign or Bangladeshi links to the violence, with investigations still continuing. He did confirm that 104 people had been identified through the analysis of CCTV footage and video recordings. Legal action has been taken against 92 people, including 12 minors, Fadnavis said.