New Delhi : Tensions flared in Nagpur, Maharashtra, on Monday as protests demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb escalated into communal violence following rumors of the burning of the Quran. The violence left six civilians injured, along with multiple police personnel, including an IPS officer.
The situation, which rapidly deteriorated after the rumors spread, led to clashes between communities, prompting a heavy police deployment to restore order. Authorities have urged calm while investigations continue into the origin of the false rumors.
VHP Demands Removal of Aurangzeb’s Tomb
In the aftermath, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has reiterated its demand for the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb and has proposed constructing a memorial for Maratha warriors Dhanaji Jadhav, Santaji Ghorpade, and Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj at the site.
These three figures are revered in Maratha history for their roles in resisting the Mughal empire. Dhanaji Jadhav and Santaji Ghorpade were prominent generals of the Maratha army during Chhatrapati Rajaram’s reign and led numerous successful campaigns against Mughal forces. Ghorpade, in particular, was renowned for his expertise in guerrilla warfare. Jadhav was instrumental in the Maratha expansion into Gujarat.
Chhatrapati Rajaram, the younger son of Shivaji Maharaj and step-brother of Sambhaji Raje, took leadership after Aurangzeb’s forces executed Sambhaji. For 11 years, Rajaram led Maratha resistance against Mughal aggression, securing several victories and preserving the sovereignty of the Maratha Empire.
VHP Condemns Violence, Demands Strict Action
VHP’s Central General Secretary Milind Parande strongly condemned the violence in Nagpur, labeling the arson and attacks allegedly carried out by a section of the Muslim community as “completely unacceptable”. He claimed Bajrang Dal activists’ homes were targeted and Hindu households attacked, with women also subjected to violence.
Parande alleged the false rumor of burning Islamic scriptures was intentionally spread to incite communal tension and violence. He demanded strictest action against those responsible, calling them “jihadi miscreants” and “anti-social elements“.
Call to End ‘Glorification’ of Aurangzeb
The VHP also urged the government to stop the glorification of Aurangzeb, who they claim was defeated by the Marathas. Parande proposed that a victory memorial be established at the site of his tomb to honor Maratha warriors who “contributed significantly to his downfall”.
He stated, “A victory pillar should stand at the site where Aurangzeb was defeated, commemorating the valor of Dhanaji Jadhav, Santaji Ghorpade, and Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj. The legacy of Maratha bravery deserves to be remembered over the memory of a ruler who oppressed them.”
Authorities on High Alert
Law enforcement remains on high alert in Nagpur, with patrols increased in sensitive areas. Officials have appealed for peace and warned against the spread of misinformation, urging the public to verify news from credible sources.
The administration has initiated efforts to mediate between communities and maintain law and order while probing the violence and false rumors.
