The streets of Mohammad Ali Square are unrecognizable. Burnt vehicles, shattered glass, and the acrid smell of destruction linger in the air—testaments to the worst night Nagpur has seen in decades.
Local resident Punit Nawapara guided this reporter through the devastation. “Yesterday, these streets were filled with life. Now, it’s a warzone,” he said, staring at a charred bike among the ruins of 33 four-wheelers and 67 two-wheelers.
In another part of the city, the Mohammad family’s home was left in ruins. Neighbors described how police allegedly broke down doors, beat the five brothers mercilessly, and detained them without explanation. Their wives stood in shock, pointing to bloodstains on the walls, broken windows, and a ceiling fan bent from the assault.
Authorities have imposed a strict curfew, but residents fear the scars left behind will not heal easily. “We have always lived in peace, and now, our homes, our businesses, and our trust have been destroyed overnight,” said a shopkeeper who lost his livelihood to the riots.
The Maharashtra government has vowed strict action against those responsible. But for the victims, words mean little when their homes and lives have been turned to ashes.
Nagpur, once a symbol of harmony, now grapples with its darkest hour.
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