Violence Erupts in Nagpur Amid Rumors of Burning of Holy Book

Tension gripped central Nagpur on Monday when stones were hurled at police amid rumors that the holy book of the Muslim community was burnt during an agitation by a right-wing body for the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb, leaving four persons injured, officials said.

- AGENCIES

Police fired tear gas shells and resorted to cane-charge to disperse the mob in Chitnis Park and Mahal areas. Violence also reportedly spread to Kotwali and Ganeshpeth in the late afternoon, officials said.

Officials said the Chitnis Park to Shukrawari Talao road belt was most affected by violence as per the preliminary information, where some four-wheelers were set afire by rioters. Stones were also thrown at the homes of residents.

Police are trying to disperse mobs believed to be in thousands.