Nagpur violence: ‘Chhaava’ movie fueled anger against Aurangzeb, says Fadnavis

Mumbai: Violent clashes broke out in Nagpur over demands to remove Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb, leading to arson, vandalism, and injuries to police personnel. The unrest, triggered by rumors of an effigy and religious ‘chadar’ burning, has sparked a major political controversy in Maharashtra.

Fadnavis blames ‘Chhaava’ movie for fueling anger

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday linked the violence to the recent release of ‘Chhaava’, a film depicting Aurangzeb’s atrocities against Sambhaji Maharaj. According to Fadnavis, the film heightened public emotions, which escalated into clashes.

"The Chhaava movie has ignited people's anger against Aurangzeb, but still, everyone must keep Maharashtra peaceful. Law and order should be maintained. If anyone riots, we will take action regardless of caste or religion," the Maharashtra CM said.

"Complaint of Muslim delegation was received by police, and it was taking action," he added.

"The unrest was pre-planned. Specific houses and establishments were targeted, making it look like a conspiracy," Fadnavis stated in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.

Police crackdown and political blame game

• MoS Home Minister Yogesh Kadam confirmed that at least 47 people have been taken into custody. 12 to 14 police officials were injured, some critically.
• Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule visited injured police personnel, condemning the attack and urging people to help authorities identify the masterminds.
• Deputy CM Eknath Shinde called it a pre-planned attack aimed at spreading communal violence, stating that 2,000-3,000 people had gathered and attacked houses in Mominpura and Chitnis Nagar.

Congress, NCP slam government’s handling of violence

• Congress MP Imran Masood blamed the government for fueling communal tensions instead of maintaining peace. "People are being made to fight each other under the government’s protection. This is not in the country’s interest," he said.
• NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal urged political parties to resolve disputes through dialogue instead of allowing street violence.

Right-wing groups intensify demands

Meanwhile, a right-wing outfit in Uttar Pradesh announced a ₹21 lakh bounty for demolishing Aurangzeb’s tomb, further escalating tensions. Security has been tightened in Khultabad, where the tomb is located.

With the Nagpur violence exposing deep communal and political divides, security forces remain on high alert to prevent further unrest. As political blame games continue, the Maharashtra government faces growing pressure to control the situation and ensure peace.