‘Bulldozers will roll’: Maharashtra CM issues dire warning to Nagpur rioters

Nagpur, one of Maharashtra‘s key urban centers, witnessed significant unrest on March 17, 2025, as tensions flared over demands to remove the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Right-wing Hindu groups had been protesting against the continued presence of the site, arguing that it symbolized historical oppression. The demonstrations turned violent following allegations that a religious book had been desecrated during the protests. This escalation led to widespread clashes, arson, and damage to both private and public property.

Authorities imposed a curfew in parts of the city to control the situation, yet reports of stone-pelting and arson persisted. Several vehicles were set ablaze, and law enforcement officials, including senior officers, sustained injuries while attempting to restore order.

How Is the Maharashtra Government Responding to the Unrest?

In the aftermath of the violence, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a strict course of action to hold rioters accountable. He declared that all damages to public and private property during the riots would be financially recovered from those responsible. He warned that if individuals failed to pay for the destruction they caused, their properties would be seized and auctioned to cover the costs.

Fadnavis also hinted at a potential ‘bulldozer’ action, a strategy seen in other states where illegal structures belonging to riot suspects have been demolished as a punitive measure. While Maharashtra has not widely implemented this approach in the past, the chief minister indicated that his government would not hesitate to take such steps if deemed necessary.

What Legal Action Has Been Taken Against Rioters?

The police have made swift arrests, detaining at least 104 individuals involved in the violence. Law enforcement agencies have been reviewing CCTV footage and video evidence to identify further suspects. Among those arrested is Faheem Khan, leader of the Minorities Democratic Party, who is accused of inciting clashes. Authorities have also been monitoring social media activity, identifying at least 68 posts that allegedly contributed to misinformation and communal tensions.

Fadnavis emphasized that those spreading rumors online would be held accountable, noting that digital evidence would be used to prosecute those responsible for inciting violence. Law enforcement officials are continuing their investigation, and more arrests are expected as authorities scrutinize additional footage from the riot-affected areas.

Could Maharashtra Implement ‘Bulldozer’ Action?

The mention of ‘bulldozer’ action by the Maharashtra chief minister echoes similar measures taken in other Indian states, where authorities have demolished properties linked to individuals accused of inciting riots or engaging in illegal activities. In Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, bulldozers have been used as both a deterrent and a punitive measure, with officials claiming it is a necessary step to maintain law and order.

Fadnavis has not yet confirmed whether Maharashtra will follow suit, but his warning suggests that his administration is considering all available options to prevent further unrest. Such a move would mark a significant shift in the state’s law enforcement strategy and could spark legal and political debates over its implications.

What Are the Broader Implications of the Nagpur Riots?

The unrest in Nagpur highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining communal harmony in a state with a history of religious and political tensions. The incident has not only raised security concerns but also intensified political discourse, with opposition parties questioning the government’s handling of the situation.

The Maharashtra government’s firm stance on recovering damages from rioters aligns with policies adopted in other states, where authorities have taken strict financial measures against those involved in violent demonstrations. However, the potential use of bulldozer tactics could set a new precedent, prompting discussions on civil liberties and due process.

The situation in Nagpur remains under control, with increased police presence and continued surveillance of sensitive areas. While the immediate violence has subsided, the long-term impact of the riots will depend on how the administration manages legal proceedings and community relations in the weeks to come.