Nagpur police arrested Fahim Shamim Khan, a leader of the Minorities Democratic Party (MDP), on Wednesday for allegedly orchestrating the violent clashes that erupted in central Nagpur late Monday night. The unrest, triggered by a dispute over the demolition of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, saw large-scale arson, stone-pelting, and attacks on law enforcement, leading authorities to impose a curfew.
The violence broke out between 8:30 and 9 PM in Nagpur’s Mahal area during a protest led by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal. At least 10 anti-riot commandos, three IPS officers, two firemen, and multiple civilians sustained injuries. Mobs set fire to two JCB machines and around 40 vehicles, vandalized police vans, and clashed with security forces.
Khan, a resident of Yashodhara Nagar, was named a prime accused in an 18-page FIR filed at Ganeshpeth Police Station. Authorities released images and a video of him allegedly making an inflammatory speech before the violence broke out. A senior police officer stated that initial investigations and video evidence indicate that his speech directly incited the riots. Khan, who contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections against BJP leader Nitin Gadkari and secured approximately 1,400 votes, has been remanded in custody until March 21.
Police have registered five FIRs against 51 individuals. One FIR from Ganeshpeth Police Station details a disturbing case in which a rioter allegedly molested a woman police officer while she was on duty. The accused also reportedly made obscene gestures and harassed other women, including police personnel. The mob allegedly attempted to tear the female officer’s clothes, but she managed to escape. A manhunt is underway to apprehend those responsible for the assault.
Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Singhal visited the affected areas on Wednesday, confirming that no further violence had been reported since the curfew was enforced. However, security remains tight, with 2,000 armed personnel, including Quick Response Teams (QRT) and Riot Control Police (RCP), stationed in sensitive locations under the supervision of a deputy commissioner of police (DCP). Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further disturbances.
