Warning of Strict Action Against Those Taking the Law into Their Own Hands and Attacking the Police

Celebrate Festivals with Peace and Restraint – Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Appeals to the Public

Mumbai, March 18: Maharashtra is a progressive state where there is no place for caste-based discrimination. On March 17, an incident in Nagpur affected the state’s social unity and disturbed peace. As festivals of all religions are ongoing, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis appealed in the Assembly for citizens to maintain peace and restraint.

In the Nagpur incident, the police had gone to maintain peace, but the crowd attacked them. The Chief Minister made it clear that those taking the law into their own hands and attacking the police would not be spared and strict action would be taken against them.

He stated that on March 17 at 11:30 AM, some organizations in the Mahal area of Nagpur staged a protest by creating a symbolic grave, demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. In response, Ganeshpeth police registered a case. However, due to rumors, violence erupted. Violent protests took place in the Hansapuri area, where 12 two-wheelers were set on fire, along with two JCBs, a crane, and a four-wheeler in Bhaldapur. Stone-pelting also occurred. In this violence, 33 police personnel and five civilians were injured; three were discharged after treatment, while two are still undergoing treatment.

To bring the situation under control, the police had to resort to tear gas and mild force. So far, three cases have been registered at Ganeshpeth Police Station and two at Tehsil Police Station. A curfew has been imposed in 11 police station areas of Nagpur, and five battalions of the State Reserve Police Force have been deployed.

The Chief Minister revealed that a large quantity of stones and weapons were recovered from the incident site, suggesting that the attack was premeditated. The state government is making all possible efforts to maintain law and order. He appealed to citizens to celebrate festivals peacefully while respecting each other and to cooperate with the government. Additionally, he assured that strict action would be taken against rioters without any discrimination based on caste or religion.