Nagpur: The Mahal area witnessed large-scale violence on Monday evening after rumors spread following the burning of an effigy of Aurangzeb. The incident led to arson, stone-pelting, and vandalism, injuring several police personnel and civilians. To restore order, the police resorted to baton charges and fired over 100 tear gas shells.
Hindu organizations had organized a demonstration near the Shivaji statue in Mahal earlier in the day. During the protest, an effigy of Aurangzeb was set ablaze along with other objects, triggering panic across the city. Soon after, a crowd gathered outside Ganeshpeth police station, demanding action against the protesters.
By 7 pm, groups of rioters began pelting stones and setting vehicles on fire near Chitnis Park. Hundreds of vehicles were damaged as the mob attempted to march toward the Shivaji statue. The sudden violence created chaos, prompting senior police officials, including Commissioner Dr. Ravinder Kumar Singal, to rush to the scene. Fire brigade personnel were deployed to control the flames.
Despite police appeals for calm, rioters continued their rampage, forcing law enforcement to take stern action. As soon as police launched baton charges and fired tear gas shells, the miscreants fled toward Chitnis Park. Several injured police officers and firefighters were hospitalized.
The police have since detained multiple suspects hiding in narrow alleys. Heavy security remains deployed in Mahal and other sensitive areas of the city to prevent further unrest. Authorities have urged citizens to ignore rumors and maintain peace.
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