– Curfew to be lifted gradually
– Co-accused to be booked for objectionable posts
– Damage assessment and aid within three days
– Ensuring Nagpur’s peace remains intact
– Rioters to compensate for damages
Nagpur :- Nagpur is known as a city of religious, social, and cultural harmony. However, after many years, an incident threatening law and order has occurred. To prevent such incidents in the future, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered strict action against rioters disturbing peace.
During a review meeting with senior police officials, the district collector, and municipal corporation officials, Fadnavis assessed the law and order situation in Nagpur. The meeting was attended by Revenue Minister and Guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Police Commissioner Dr. Ravindra Singal, Inspector General of Police (Nagpur Range) Dilip Patil-Bhujbal, District Collector Dr. Vipin Itankar, Municipal Commissioner Dr. Abhijit Chaudhary, and several senior police officers.
Fadnavis emphasized that Nagpur has a reputation as a peaceful city, and strict action will be taken against those trying to disrupt its harmony. He noted that despite police action against an afternoon protest related to Aurangzeb, anti-social elements incited riots in the evening. The police swiftly intervened to control the violence, but significant damage occurred, including the torching of vehicles and public property. Stone pelting also left 34 police personnel injured.
To maintain law and order, Section 144 has been imposed in 11 police station areas. So far, 13 cases have been registered, and 104 accused have been arrested, including 12 juveniles. Fadnavis directed police officials to use CCTV footage and videos from citizens to identify and take strict action against rioters. He assured that no rioter would escape the consequences.
Authorities have identified 250 objectionable social media posts related to the riots, and cases have been registered against 62 individuals, with two arrests made so far. Fadnavis has also ordered that those who post and share such content be booked as co-accused for inciting violence.
Rioters to Pay for Damages
The riots resulted in significant damage to vehicles and property. Fadnavis instructed officials to conduct damage assessments and provide aid within three to four days. However, he made it clear that the full cost of the damages would be recovered from the rioters. Their properties will be sold if necessary to compensate for the losses. Municipal authorities, district administration, and police will jointly take action to implement this order.
A total of 71 vehicles and various properties have been damaged. The district administration has begun damage assessments, and necessary documents for insurance claims will be provided to vehicle owners immediately.
Appeal for Public Cooperation
With upcoming festivals and events in Nagpur, Fadnavis urged citizens to cooperate with authorities in maintaining peace. He instructed the police to take immediate action against any attempts to disrupt law and order.
Earlier, Police Commissioner Dr. Ravindra Singal presented details of the incidents, assuring that strict action will be taken against all those responsible.