Nagpur Unrest: Key Updates, Pleas for Harmony, and Section 144 Enforced
Nagpur Erupts in Violence
On Monday, Nagpur’s central areas witnessed escalating tensions following rumors, resulting in stone-pelting incidents involving the police. Four individuals were injured, as reported by officials to PTI. To disperse the crowd in Chitnis Park and Mahal areas, the police resorted to tear gas shells and lathi charges. The unrest then spread to Kotwali and Ganeshpeth.
- The Chitnis Park to Shukrawari Talao road belt was severely affected
- Several four-wheelers were set ablaze
- Stones were hurled at houses
- Police are striving to manage the massive crowds
Police Forces Mobilized
The situation intensified after Bajrang Dal members staged a protest near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Mahal. Stones were pelted at police personnel in Chitnis Park and Mahal, prompting the use of tear gas shells. Security has been beefed up in sensitive areas, with Quick Response Teams (QRT), Riot Control Police, and the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) being deployed. Additional police forces from various stations were also summoned.
Section 144 Imposed
Nagpur Police Commissioner Ravinder Singal declared that section 144 has been enforced in the area. He affirmed that the situation is currently calm, and the photo that was burned has caused people to assemble and make demands. An FIR has been registered based on the mentioned names, and action will be taken against them. Police are conducting combing operations and identifying and apprehending those involved. Singal advised everyone to avoid unnecessary outings or taking the law into their own hands, and to not trust rumors.
Calls for Peace
The Maharashtra chief minister denounced the volatile situation in Mahal area of Nagpur, stating that stone-pelting and instigating societal tensions is unacceptable. The police commissioner has been directed to take stringent measures to uphold law and order. Union Minister and Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari also appealed for tranquility, urging citizens not to believe rumors and to maintain peace. He assured residents that the government will take action against those who have committed errors or engaged in unlawful activities.
Maharashtra Congress Chief Blames Government
Maharashtra Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal held the state home department responsible for Monday’s violence in Nagpur. He accused ministers of delivering inflammatory speeches in recent days, stating that it seems their efforts have borne fruit in Nagpur.
