Nagpur, Maharashtra : Authorities in Nagpur initiated bulldozer action against Faheem Khan, one of the key accused in the recent Nagpur violence. On Monday, police arrived at his residence with a bulldozer, demolishing parts of his home as part of the crackdown.
The move follows the violent clashes that erupted in Nagpur on March 17 over demands for the removal of Aurangzeb’s grave. The unrest saw stone pelting at police officers and rumors spreading about the alleged burning of a holy book, fueling further tensions.
CM Fadnavis: ‘Riots Triggered by Social Media Rumors’
On March 22, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that 92 people had been arrested in connection with the violence. He emphasized that false rumors spread through social media played a major role in escalating tensions.
“I chaired a high-level meeting regarding the violence, which was also attended by state minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule. I reviewed every detail and shared my thoughts… The tomb of Aurangzeb was burnt that day when this incident occurred. Following the incident, a case was registered with the police. However, some people spread a rumor via podcasts and social media posts that a holy ‘chadar’ was burnt. This led to rioters pelting stones, torching vehicles, and attacking shops in Nagpur,” said CM Fadnavis.
He further stated that damages caused during the violence would be recovered from those responsible. “Whatever damage has happened will be recovered from the rioters. If they do not pay the money, their property will be sold for the recovery. Bulldozers will also be used wherever required,” he added.
Cyber Cell Confirms Social Media Manipulation
The Maharashtra Police Cyber Cell revealed that one of the accused, Faheem Khan, had manipulated and circulated edited videos to incite violence.
“He (Faheem Khan) edited and circulated the video of the protest against Aurangzeb due to which the riots spread. He also glorified violent videos,” said Cyber Cell’s Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Lohit Matani.
Faheem Khan, a leader of the Minorities Democratic Party, was arrested on March 19 and remains in custody as investigations continue.