Nagpur Violence: Bulldozer Action on House of Key Accused Fahim Khan

In a crackdown following the recent violence in Nagpur, the city’s municipal corporation on Monday demolished an unauthorized structure linked to Fahim Khan, a key accused in the unrest. The violence erupted on March 17 after rumors spread that a ‘chadar’ with religious inscriptions had been burnt during a protest by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

A team from the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), accompanied by police, arrived at Khan’s residence in Sanjay Bagh Colony, Yashodhara Nagar, with bulldozers. Officials stated that the demolition was carried out due to illegal construction and violations of municipal regulations. The house is registered under the name of Khan’s wife.

Fahim Khan, the city chief of the Minority Democratic Party (MDP), has been booked for sedition and is among over 100 people arrested in connection with the violence. Reports indicate that he played a significant role in the clashes, which saw large-scale stone-pelting and arson, leaving 33 police personnel—including three Deputy Commissioner of Police-rank officers—injured.

Authorities had previously issued a notice to Khan regarding the unauthorized construction, citing the lack of necessary approvals. Following his arrest, municipal officials moved swiftly to act on the violations.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also oversees the Home Ministry, has taken a firm stance against the rioters. He announced that the cost of damages from the violence would be recovered from those responsible. “If they fail to pay, their properties will be seized and auctioned,” Fadnavis warned, reaffirming his government’s commitment to strict action against those involved in attacks on law enforcement.