Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to divide Maharashtra and likened the recent violence in Nagpur to the ongoing unrest in Manipur. Addressing the media on Tuesday, Thackeray questioned the Maharashtra government’s handling of the situation and criticized Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ lack of immediate response.
Thackeray’s Allegations Against BJP
Thackeray raised concerns about the state’s inaction despite early warnings of violence. “Why did the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) not react when rumours of violence were spreading in Nagpur? Whenever such an incident is about to take place, the first report arrives at the Chief Minister of the state and the Home Department. Did they not have any information regarding this? I think the BJP wants to make Maharashtra the next Manipur,” he alleged.
Drawing a comparison with Vietnam’s booming electronics industry, Thackeray emphasized that India’s economic growth was being hindered by divisive politics. “Vietnam, despite being smaller than India, has an electronic industry three times larger. While our country considers itself strong, the BJP is trying to divide it into districts, religions, and castes,” he added.
Fadnavis Terms Nagpur Violence a “Well-Planned Attack”
Responding to the violence, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the unrest in Nagpur appeared to be a “well-planned attack.” He alleged that misinformation about the burning of religious content had triggered the protests organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal.
“No one has permission to take law and order into their hands,” Fadnavis said while addressing the legislative assembly. He also confirmed that three Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) were among the 33 police personnel injured in the clashes. “One DCP was attacked with an axe. Attack on police will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken against those involved in violence.”
Curfew Imposed in Multiple Areas
Following the violence, a curfew was imposed under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in several parts of Nagpur. According to an official notification from Maharashtra police, the restrictions will remain in effect until further notice in the police station limits of Kotwali, Ganeshpeth, Tehsil, Lakadganj, Pachpaoli, Shantinagar, Sakkardara, Nandanvan, Imamwada, Yashodharanagar, and Kapilnagar.
BJP MLA Claims Violence Was Pre-Planned
BJP MLA Pravin Datke visited the violence-hit Hansapuri area and claimed that the destruction of specific shops and the targeting of cameras indicated a pre-planned attack. “If there were two shops, one owned by a Hindu and another by a Muslim, only the former was affected. The cameras were destroyed, showing that this incident was orchestrated,” Datke alleged.
Political Fallout and Assembly Showdown
The Nagpur violence sparked a heated exchange in the Maharashtra legislative assembly, with the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the opposition blaming each other. While Shiv Sena leaders protested against Aurangzeb’s tomb, the opposition criticized the government for failing to maintain law and order.
As tensions continue to escalate, Chief Minister Fadnavis has urged citizens to remain peaceful. “The Chhava movie has ignited people’s anger against Aurangzeb, but maintaining peace in Maharashtra is essential. If anyone indulges in rioting, action will be taken irrespective of caste or religion,” he said.
Sources By Agencies
