Nagpur (Maharashtra) [India], March 20: Maharashtra Police’s Cyber Cell revealed on Thursday that one of the accused in the Nagpur riots, Faheem Khan, allegedly edited and circulated provocative videos, which led to the violence spreading across various parts of the city.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Lohit Matani told,
“He (Faheem Khan) edited and circulated the video of the protest against Aurangzeb, due to which the riots spread. He also glorified violent videos.”
Four FIRs Registered, 50 Arrests Made
Nagpur Police have registered four FIRs in connection with the riots that erupted on Monday night (March 17). DCP Matani elaborated on the cases, stating:
- Editing and circulating videos of the protest against Aurangzeb, glorifying violence.
- Creating and spreading clips to incite violence between two communities.
- Posting multiple instigating messages on social media to fuel tensions.
Faheem Khan, a leader of the Minorities Democratic Party (MDP), was arrested on March 19 and has been remanded in custody till March 21.
Curfew in Some Parts, Government to Assess Property Damage
Nagpur’s Collector Vipin Itankar confirmed that while normalcy has been restored, a curfew remains in some areas as a precautionary measure.
“We are in touch with the Police on this,” he said.
The state government is currently assessing damages to civilian property and has promised compensation to those affected. Initial estimates suggest that:
- 50-60 two-wheelers
- 10-15 four-wheelers
- Cranes and 5-10 houses were damaged during the riots.
Ongoing Investigation
Nagpur Police have arrested 50 people, including seven minors, in connection with the violence. Officials are reviewing CCTV footage and investigating the alleged mastermind behind the clashes.
Authorities continue to probe the sequence of events leading up to the riots and have urged citizens to refrain from spreading misinformation on social media.