Tensions are high in Nagpur after violence broke out on Monday over rumours that a holy book had been desecrated during a demonstration in the city by right-wing outfits seeking the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb located in Khuldabad in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (former Aurangabad) district.
While speaking in the Maharashtra Assembly on Tuesday, Chief Minister Fadnavis, who also holds the Home portfolio, said, “After the morning incident (of right-wing groups allegedly burning an effigy of Aurangzeb), there was silence. By evening, some people attacked in a pre-planned manner. We found a trolley full of stones and weapons were also found which had been seized. Selected houses and establishments were targeted.”
But tensions have been brewing in the state for about two weeks, ever since Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA and state chief Abu Azmi praised Aurangzeb, sparking fierce backlash and contentious statements from leaders of the ruling Mahayuti, building up to demands for the razing of Aurangzeb’s tomb.
March 3
Azmi first stoked the controversy with his remarks criticising the historical accuracy of Bollywood hit Chhaava, a drama centered around Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Maratha king Shivaji. Disputing the film’s portrayal of Aurangzeb, the SP leader said: “Wrong history is being shown in ‘Chhaava’… Aurangzeb built several temples… I do not think he was a cruel administrator.”
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