Nagpur: A political blame game has erupted over the Nagpur clashes that left over 30 people injured. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the violence was planned. On the other hand, the Opposition alleged failure on the government’s part. Meanwhile, a curfew has been imposed in several areas of Nagpur. The violence broke out on Monday evening reportedly over a call to move the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb out of Maharashtra.
According to reports, more than 60 rioters were taken into custody. At least 30 vehicles were set on fire after a massive clash between two groups in the Mahal area of the city, reported the India Today.
Speaking in the Maharashtra Assembly, Fadnavis said, “In Nagpur, Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal held protests. Rumours were spread that things containing religious content were burnt….It looks like a well-planned attack. No one has permission to take law and order into their hands.”
Fadnavis said such attacks on police would not be tolerated and assured of taking strict action. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also termed the violence to be a “planned conspiracy”. “Such kind of a brutal incident was never witnessed before. The protestors are protesting for the pride of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj… Those who support Aurangzeb should read history and watch the movie ‘Chhava’… I believe that even the true patriotic Muslims will not support Aurangzeb,” he added.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury gave a suspension notice in Rajya Sabha over the ‘complete breakdown of communal harmony and law and order’ in the Maharashtra district.
“That this house do suspend zero hour and relevant rules relating Question Hour and other scheduled business to deliberate on the complete breakdown of communal harmony and law and order in Nagpur, Maharashtra. In its 300 years of dynamic existence, Nagpur has never experienced riots,” read the notice.
Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi said, “Instigating violence, creating instability in the state, keeping the citizens busy over past history while getting away with tough questions on the state’s financial doom, increased debt burden, growing joblessness and farmer suicides. Maharashtra is being strategically led towards making the state unattractive for investment. It is to help the neighbouring state to take advantage.”
Congress MP Imran Masood, said, “The government is responsible for it. Unfortunately, the people are made to fight against each other under the protection of the government. The CM should take action against those who are behind it, irrespective of their religion. New stories are being fabricated based on the past. This is not in the country’s favour.