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Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut slammed Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis over the recent Nagpur violence linked to the Aurangzeb tomb controversy. Raut questioned Fadnavis’ role as Home Minister, alleging a failure to prevent the clashes. He also accused the RSS of attempting to erase Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy by distorting historical narratives. This blog covers the details of the violence, Raut’s allegations, political reactions, and the historical and communal implications.

Focus Keywords:
Nagpur violence, Sanjay Raut interview, Devendra Fadnavis, Aurangzeb tomb row, Shiv Sena UBT, RSS accusations, Maharashtra clashes, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Maharashtra politics, Nagpur curfew

Nagpur Violence: Sanjay Raut Blames Devendra Fadnavis, Accuses RSS of Distorting History Over Aurangzeb Tomb Row

Aurangzeb Tomb Row Sparks Violent Clashes in Nagpur

Nagpur, Maharashtra’s winter capital, was gripped by violence on Monday night as clashes broke out between two groups over the ongoing Aurangzeb tomb controversy. The violence, which saw incidents of stone-pelting, arson, and vandalism, forced authorities to impose a curfew in sensitive areas like Hansapuri. Several individuals were injured, and the police detained multiple suspects involved in the riots.

The violence has triggered a political uproar, with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut holding Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis responsible for the law-and-order breakdown.

Sanjay Raut Criticizes Fadnavis’ Leadership, Questions Police Preparedness

In a scathing interview with The Indian Express, Raut questioned why Fadnavis, who also serves as Maharashtra’s Home Minister, was unaware of the pre-planned violence.
“If the violence in Nagpur was pre-planned, why did Devendra Fadnavis, as Home Minister, not know? Either he was uninformed or deliberately ignored the warning signs,” Raut stated.

The Sena (UBT) leader further alleged that the BJP government failed to act on intelligence inputs, resulting in the communal clashes.

RSS Accused of Erasing Chhatrapati Shivaji’s Legacy

Raut did not hold back in his criticism of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), accusing the organization of attempting to distort history by desecrating Aurangzeb’s tomb.
“Aurangzeb came to conquer Maharashtra but was repeatedly defeated by the Marathas. His tomb is a reminder of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s valor. By erasing it, the RSS wants to rewrite history and diminish Shivaji’s legacy,” Raut claimed.

His remarks have sparked a political row, with BJP leaders accusing Raut of “defending a tyrant” and playing divisive politics.

Political Reactions: Blame Game Escalates

The violence has led to heated political exchanges, with opposition parties criticizing the BJP-led state government’s handling of the situation.

• Sharad Pawar, NCP chief, condemned the violence and demanded an impartial probe.
• Congress leader Nana Patole accused the BJP of fueling communal tensions for political gains.
• Raj Thackeray, MNS chief, called for strict action against rioters, stating that “Maharashtra’s peace cannot be compromised for political benefits.”

In response, Fadnavis defended the state police, claiming that the violence was orchestrated by anti-social elements to destabilize the region.

Curfew Imposed in Nagpur: Police on High Alert

Following the clashes, Nagpur police imposed a curfew in Hansapuri and surrounding areas to prevent further violence. Heavy security deployment, including additional police forces and rapid action teams, was initiated.
Authorities have confirmed multiple arrests and are investigating the alleged pre-planned nature of the clashes.

Historical and Communal Undertones: A Politically Charged Issue

The Aurangzeb tomb controversy has become a flashpoint in Maharashtra politics, with right-wing groups demanding its removal. They argue that the tomb symbolizes the oppression faced by the Marathas under the Mughal regime.

However, historians and political analysts have warned against politicizing historical figures for contemporary gains. They argue that desecrating the tomb does not diminish Aurangzeb’s historical existence but rather erodes the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who fought and triumphed over him.

 Rising Communal Tensions Amid Political Rivalry

The Nagpur violence over the Aurangzeb tomb row has exposed the deepening communal fault lines in Maharashtra. Sanjay Raut’s criticism of Devendra Fadnavis and his accusations against the RSS reflect the intensifying political rivalry in the state.

As Maharashtra prepares for local body elections, the controversy is likely to remain a politically charged issue, with both BJP and opposition parties using it to consolidate their voter base.
The incident highlights the need for responsible political discourse and a focus on maintaining communal harmony rather than exploiting historical narratives for political gains.