Nagpur Violence: Swift Action! Mastermind Fahim Khan Arrested After Speech Incites Riots, Security Tightened

Nagpur violence has taken a new turn with the arrest of Fahim Khan, the alleged mastermind behind the unrest. The accused, a local leader of the Minorities Democratic Party (MDP), was taken into custody after a video surfaced showing him delivering an inflammatory speech just before the violence erupted. His arrest is being seen as a major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation.

Who is Fahim Khan? The Alleged Mastermind Behind Nagpur Violence

The arrest of Fahim Khan took place on Wednesday, just hours after his name was officially included in an FIR at Ganeshpeth Police Station. Authorities had earlier released his photograph, seeking public help in tracking him down. Khan, who serves as the city president of MDP, resides in Sanjay Bagh Colony, Yashodhara Nagar.

Following his court appearance, he was remanded to police custody until March 21 for further questioning. Officials believe that his speech played a crucial role in inciting the violence, leading to widespread clashes and damage in the city. Video evidence reportedly supports these claims.

Fahim Khan was not only active in local politics but had also contested the Lok Sabha elections in 2024 from the Nagpur constituency. He ran against senior BJP leader Nitin Gadkari under the MDP banner. However, he suffered a significant defeat, losing by more than Six lakh votes.

How Did the Nagpur Violence Begin?

The violence broke out in Nagpur’s Chitnis Park area on March 17. It reportedly started after rumors spread about the desecration of a religious text during a right-wing protest. The demonstration was aimed at demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The situation escalated when mobs began pelting stones at the police, injuring 34 officers.

Government's Response and Security Measures

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavistermed the Nagpur violence as preplanned, while Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde called it a deliberate act. Fadnavis stated that large quantities of weapons and a trolley full of stones were discovered, indicating an organised attack.

Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam, assured that strict action would be taken against those who attacked police personnel. Meanwhile, law enforcement has imposed a curfew in sensitive areas, and over 2,000 police personnel have been deployed to maintain peace.