The recent violence in Nagpur has become a heated issue in Parliament, with Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury strongly criticizing Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. She accused him of failing to maintain law and order and claimed that the riots were the result of political provocation.
Also Read,Nagpur Clashes: Who Planned the Aurangzeb Row Violence?
Congress Attacks Fadnavis Over Law & Order
Renuka Chowdhury submitted a suspension notice in the Rajya Sabha, calling for an urgent discussion on the issue. She stated that Nagpur, known for its 300-year peaceful history, had never witnessed such riots before.
Blaming Fadnavis directly, she said:
"It is the CM’s duty to maintain peace and harmony, but he has failed in his Rajdharma (duties of a ruler). Instead, he used history to create division and unrest."
What Triggered the Violence?
The clashes began on March 17, when Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal members gathered near Shivaji Maharaj’s statue in Nagpur’s Mahal area. They were protesting to demand the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb from Maharashtra.
According to police reports:
- Protesters burned a photo of Aurangzeb and a symbolic grave wrapped in a green cloth.
- Stones were thrown at police and civilians.
- Several vehicles were torched and houses vandalized.
- A clinic was also attacked during the riots.
Curfew & Arrests After Clashes
To prevent further violence, the Nagpur police imposed a curfew in affected areas. So far:
- 50 people have been detained for rioting.
- Several police officers were injured in the clashes.
- The police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify more suspects.
Government & Opposition Reactions
Nagpur MP and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari urged citizens to remain calm and avoid believing rumors. Meanwhile, CM Devendra Fadnavis called for public cooperation to restore peace.
However, the Congress and opposition parties continue to hold the BJP-led Maharashtra government responsible. With tensions high, the debate over political accountability in the Nagpur violence is far from over.