Nagpur violence appears pre-planned, with the mob targeting specific homes, says Maharashtra CM Fadnavis

Nagpur Violence Was Pre-Planned, Mob Targeted Specific Homes: Maharashtra CM Fadnavis

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has revealed disturbing details about the recent communal violence in Nagpur, stating that the attacks appear to have been carefully planned in advance. Speaking at a high-level security review meeting, Fadnavis emphasized that rioters deliberately singled out homes and businesses belonging to members of a particular community during the unrest that erupted in Mominpura earlier this week.  

Eyewitness accounts and preliminary police investigations paint a chilling picture of coordinated violence. What began as isolated stone-throwing at a religious procession quickly escalated into targeted attacks, with armed mobs moving through neighborhoods with alarming precision. "They knew exactly which houses to hit," said local resident Ayesha Sheikh, whose family barricaded themselves inside as rioters smashed windows and looted shops just meters from their home. "This wasn't random anger - they came prepared with lists."  

Authorities have uncovered compelling evidence suggesting premeditation, including CCTV footage showing groups of individuals moving systematically through the area. Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar confirmed that analysis of social media activity before the violence indicates possible planning, with inflammatory messages circulating in closed groups.  

The police response has been swift but measured, with over 30 arrests made so far and Rapid Action Force personnel deployed to sensitive areas. Among those detained are several individuals with prior criminal records related to communal incidents. "We're pursuing every lead," Kumar stated. "The forensic team is examining mobile phone data and digital footprints to identify the masterminds."  

The violence has left deep scars on the normally peaceful neighborhood. At least a dozen homes and twice as many businesses suffered significant damage, with several vehicles completely burned out. Local volunteers have been working around the clock to help affected families board up broken windows and replace stolen goods. "We've lived together here for generations," said Hindu shopkeeper Rajesh Tiwari, whose Muslim neighbors helped protect his store. "These outsiders want to break what we've built, but they won't succeed."  

Political reactions have been mixed, with opposition leaders criticizing the state government's handling of the situation while community elders from all faiths have united in calls for peace. Religious leaders from various temples and mosques issued a joint statement condemning the violence and urging residents not to be provoked by rumors.  

As the city begins the slow process of healing, authorities remain on high alert. Additional police checkpoints have been established throughout Mominpura, with officers conducting random searches for weapons. The state government has announced compensation for affected families and promised a thorough, transparent investigation. "Nagpur has always been a model of communal harmony," Fadnavis said in a televised address. "We will not allow anyone to destroy that legacy."