Violence Grips Nagpur Following Demands to Remove Aurangzeb’s Tomb

Nagpur, India — A curfew remains in effect in parts of Nagpur following violent clashes sparked by demands from Hindu nationalist groups for the removal of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb. The unrest, which began on Monday, March 17, 2025, has prompted a swift response from local authorities, including multiple arrests and heightened security measures.

The catalyst for the violence was a series of protests organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), a Hindu nationalist institution. These protests targeted various government offices, where VHP representatives submitted memorandums calling for the dismantling of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khuldabad. The memorandums, addressed to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, cited Aurangzeb’s historical actions as justification for their demand.

The VHP stated that Aurangzeb had killed two sons of Sikh guru Guru Gobind Singh becuase they refused to convert, tortured and killed Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and demolished temples in Kashi, Mathura and Somnath.

These claims are central to the VHP’s argument and reflect a broader historical narrative of Hindu-Muslim conflict in India. For U.S. readers, this situation can be likened to debates surrounding Confederate monuments in the South, where historical figures and events are viewed through conflicting lenses of heritage and oppression.

Government Response and Arrests

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has strongly condemned the violence, vowing strict action against those involved.On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, Fadnavis addressed the state Assembly, stating, “Those who attacked police during the arson in nagpur will be dug out from their graves. Attacks on police are unpardonable. They will get the strictest punishment. We won’t spare them.”

As of Wednesday evening, law enforcement officials conducted extensive combing operations in Nagpur’s Bhaldarpura area. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Zone II, Mahak Swami, a total of 33 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence. Of the 51 individuals named in the First Details Report (FIR) registered at Ganeshpeth Police Station, 29 were arrested, while five juveniles were released. Additionally, eight members of the VHP and Bajrang dal surrendered to Kotwali police and were later granted bail.

historical Context and Political Implications

Chief Minister Fadnavis attributed the heightened tensions to the recent release of the movie Chhava, which depicts Aurangzeb’s alleged atrocities against Sambhaji Maharaj. He stated that the government is obligated to protect Aurangzeb’s tomb as it is a protected historical site, but emphasized that it will not allow any attempts to glorify Aurangzeb’s legacy.

On Monday, he said that the government is obligated to protect Aurangzeb’s tomb which is a protected site, but it won’t allow attempts to glorify his legacy through “mahima mandan”.

The controversy surrounding Aurangzeb’s tomb highlights the complex and frequently enough contentious relationship between history, politics, and religious identity in India. The incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding historical figures and sites, particularly those associated with periods of conflict or perceived injustice.This is similar to debates in the U.S. regarding the removal of statues of controversial historical figures; arguments often center on whose history is being honored and at whose expense.

Looking ahead, the situation in Nagpur presents a challenge for authorities seeking to maintain order and prevent further escalation. Addressing the underlying grievances and historical narratives that fuel such conflicts is essential. This situation mirrors broader issues of cultural heritage preservation vs. demands for the removal of symbols perceived as oppressive — topics Americans are parsing as well.