Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has condemned the recent violence in Nagpur, emphasizing that vandalizing graves or mausoleums is not acceptable and harms communal harmony. She has urged the Maharashtra government to take strict and immediate action against the unruly elements responsible for the disturbances to prevent any further escalation of tensions.

Mayawati Calls for Peace and Brotherhood

Reacting to the violence in the Chitnis Park area of Mahal, Nagpur, Mayawati appealed for mutual brotherhood and peace, stating that harming religious sentiments and resorting to vandalism is unjustifiable.

“It is not right to damage or vandalise anyone's grave or mausoleum in Maharashtra as it disrupts the mutual brotherhood, peace, and harmony. The government should take strict action against such unruly elements, especially in Nagpur. Otherwise, the situation can worsen, which is not right,” Mayawati posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Violence Erupted Over Aurangzeb’s Tomb Row

The violence erupted in Nagpur’s Mahal area on Monday evening after rumours spread that a holy book belonging to a community was set ablaze during a protest by a right-wing group demanding the removal of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb. Stone-pelting and vandalism ensued, leaving 22 police personnel injured and resulting in several incidents of arson.

According to official reports, the violence broke out around 7:30 pm on March 17, 2025, after members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal gathered near the Shivaji Maharaj statue in Mahal to demand the removal of Aurangzeb’s grave. The situation quickly escalated, with stone-pelting and clashes leading to widespread panic and destruction.

Mayawati Warns Against Escalation

Mayawati warned that the situation could worsen if timely action is not taken against the miscreants. She urged the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra to take decisive action to prevent further deterioration of law and order.

Arrests and Curfew Imposed

In response to the violence, the Nagpur police have imposed a curfew in various police station limits, including:

• Kotwali
• Ganeshpeth
• Tehsil
• Lakadganj
• Pachpaoli
• Shantinagar
• Sakkardara
• Nandanvan
• Imamwada
• Yashodharanagar
• Kapilnagar

The police have arrested 65 protesters during combing operations in the Mahal area, which also houses the RSS headquarters. Reports indicate that 15 people were arrested on Monday evening, while additional arrests were made after further investigation.

Clashes Leave 22 Police Personnel Injured

The clashes resulted in 22 police personnel being injured while attempting to control the mob. Three policemen sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment. According to eyewitnesses, 200 to 250 members of the VHP and Bajrang Dal had assembled to protest against Aurangzeb's tomb, which led to a heated confrontation with local groups.

Nitin Gadkari and Devendra Fadnavis Appeal for Peace

In the aftermath of the violence, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari have appealed to the public to maintain peace and harmony. Both leaders emphasized that law and order should not be disrupted and urged citizens to cooperate with the administration during this sensitive time.

VHP and Bajrang Dal’s Protest Sparks Violence

The VHP and Bajrang Dal protest, aimed at demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s grave, led to communal tension in the Mahal area of Nagpur. The protest, which started peacefully, soon spiraled into violence following the rumours of a holy book being burnt.

Mayawati Emphasizes Need for Mutual Harmony

Mayawati reiterated that such actions go against the spirit of mutual brotherhood and harmony. She stressed that peace and dialogue should prevail over hatred and violence.

“Respecting religious sentiments and maintaining communal harmony is essential for the progress of society. Any attempt to disturb peace through violence or vandalism is unacceptable and should be dealt with strictly,” Mayawati said in her statement.

Strict Legal Action Against Perpetrators

The Nagpur police and administration are taking strict legal action against those responsible for the riots and vandalism. They have warned that any further attempts to disrupt peace will be met with severe consequences. DCP Chandak stated that the police are closely monitoring the situation and taking preventive measures to avoid any escalation.

Protecting Heritage and Religious Sentiments

Mayawati also emphasized the importance of preserving historical monuments and respecting religious sites. She stressed that damaging graves or mausoleums is an insult to history and religious beliefs, which only serves to divide communities.

Call for Calm and Cooperation

Both the state government and opposition leaders have appealed to the public to maintain peace and order. Authorities have urged people not to believe in rumours and to rely on verified information from official sources.

Conclusion: Ensuring Law and Order in Nagpur

The Nagpur violence has raised concerns over communal harmony and public safety. Mayawati’s strong condemnation of vandalism and her call for strict action reflect the need for immediate intervention to prevent further unrest. With curfews imposed and arrests made, the Maharashtra government is working to restore normalcy in the affected areas. Peace, dialogue, and mutual respect remain the key to maintaining harmony and preventing future incidents.

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