Violent clashes break out in India, leaving nearly 30 police officers dead

On March 15 evening, violent clashes erupted in Nagpur, Maharashtra, following a protest by Hindu outfits calling for the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Sambhaji Nagar. 

Nearly 60 to 65 rioters were arrested, and 25 to 30 police personnel sustained injuries as the clashes escalated in the Mahal area. Around 25 motorcycles and three cars were set on fire during the violence, which involved large-scale property vandalism and confrontations between two groups, Caliber.Az reports via Indian media.

BJP MLA from Nagpur Central, Pravin Datke, visited the site and claimed that the unrest was orchestrated. “This entire thing was preplanned. After an agitation in the morning, an incident occurred at Ganesh Peth police station. Everything seemed normal after that. But then the mob targeted only Hindu homes and shops, first destroying cameras, then carrying out violence with weapons,” Datke alleged.

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as protestors vandalized vehicles and property, particularly around Shivaji Chowk, before the violence spread to surrounding areas. Local residents claimed that such an incident was unprecedented in Nagpur’s 300-year history.

In response, local police imposed Section 163 to maintain order and are analyzing CCTV footage to identify those responsible for the violence. The clashes follow ongoing protests by Hindu groups like Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), who have been campaigning for the demolition of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Sambhaji Nagar.

The controversy surrounding the tomb has further intensified tensions, with protests continuing throughout the week. On March 17, similar demonstrations were held in Nagpur, hours before the violence erupted.

By Khagan Isayev