Fadnavis blames ‘Chhaava’ movie for Nagpur clashes, calls It a "planned attack"

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has linked the recent clashes in Nagpur to the Vicky Kaushal-starrer ‘Chhaava’, stating that the movie has ignited anger among people against Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Speaking in the state Assembly, Fadnavis said the violence, which left 30 people injured and several vehicles torched, was part of a planned attack and assured strict action against those responsible.

The clashes erupted on Monday evening in the Hansapuri area, following protests organized by Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal. The protests were reportedly over rumors that religious content had been burned. The violence led to stone-pelting, arson, and destruction of property, with authorities struggling to control the situation.

Fadnavis, addressing lawmakers, stated, "Chhaava movie has ignited people’s anger against Aurangzeb, but everyone must keep Maharashtra peaceful." He emphasized that no one has the right to take the law into their own hands, reinforcing the BJP’s stance that the incident was not spontaneous but pre-planned.

In response to the violence, the administration imposed a curfew in multiple areas of Nagpur. More than 60 individuals have been taken into custody, and 30 vehicles were set on fire during the unrest in the Mahal locality. Authorities are conducting a detailed investigation to identify those responsible for the violence.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also condemned the clashes, calling it an attempt to spread communal unrest. “Around 2,000 to 3,000 people gathered and attacked houses in Mominpura, Chitnis Nagar, and nearby areas. They not only targeted civilians but also attacked police personnel. This appears to be a pre-planned attack,” Shinde said, adding that "those behind this will not be spared."

The opposition has criticized the state and central governments over the handling of the situation. Congress leader Renuka Chowdhury raised the issue in Rajya Sabha, submitting a suspension notice to discuss what she called a "complete breakdown of communal harmony and law and order in Nagpur."

"Nagpur, in its 300 years of history, has never witnessed riots. The government has failed to prevent unrest, and urgent discussions are needed," her notice stated.

The violence was reportedly triggered by ongoing debates over the relocation of Aurangzeb’s tomb from Maharashtra, a demand raised by several right-wing groups in recent weeks. However, opposition leaders have accused the ruling party of fueling communal tensions for political gains.

With Nagpur under curfew and law enforcement on high alert, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Investigations are underway to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the clashes and whether external forces played a role in instigating violence.