Tue Mar 18 21:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Nagpur Curfew After Aurangzeb Tomb Dispute Sparks Violence
**Nagpur, Maharashtra, India** – A curfew has been imposed in parts of Nagpur following violent clashes between Hindu and Muslim groups. The unrest, which erupted Monday night, stemmed from ongoing demands by Hindu organizations to remove the tomb of 17th-century Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, located hundreds of kilometers away.
The violence, described by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis as a “well-planned attack,” involved arson and stone-throwing in the Mahal area. The initial trigger was the burning of Aurangzeb’s effigy by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal, which sparked rumors of religious symbol desecration. This led to a confrontation between approximately 250 Muslim men and police, resulting in injuries to 33 officers. Over 50 individuals have been detained.
The unrest follows a recent Bollywood film depicting the torture of Maratha ruler Sambhaji, who fought against Aurangzeb, further fueling anti-Aurangzeb sentiment. This, coupled with earlier controversial comments by regional politician Abu Azmi praising Aurangzeb’s rule, intensified existing tensions. Azmi’s remarks, which lauded the emperor’s economic achievements and territorial expansion, prompted his suspension from the state assembly.
The controversy surrounding Aurangzeb’s legacy – characterized by both religious devotion and ruthless expansionism – has been escalating for years, with his tomb repeatedly becoming a focal point of political debate. Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself has previously condemned Aurangzeb’s actions. The incident highlights the sensitive nature of religious and historical figures in India’s complex social and political landscape, and the ongoing challenges in maintaining peace and order amidst such deeply rooted tensions. Shops remain closed in central Nagpur, and security has been significantly increased throughout the city. Opposition parties have criticized the BJP-led state government’s handling of the situation, claiming a breakdown in law and order.
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