In a significant breakthrough, Nagpur Police have arrested Fahim Khan, the alleged mastermind behind the recent communal riots that erupted in Nagpur on March 17, 2025. The violence, which spread rapidly in parts of the city, resulted in injuries to police personnel and civilians, along with damage to public and private property. According to authorities, Khan played a pivotal role in instigating the unrest by spreading false rumors and delivering inflammatory speeches.
In This Article:
Background of the Nagpur Riots
What Led to the Violence?
The communal clashes in Nagpur were reportedly triggered by rumors of religious desecration, which spread rapidly via social media and local networks. The situation escalated when miscreants took to the streets, clashing with police and rival groups, leading to a breakdown of law and order. The unrest was concentrated in areas like Chitnis Park and Yashodhara Nagar, where mobs engaged in stone-pelting, vandalism, and arson.
Police Response and Curfew Imposed
To contain the violence, the Nagpur police imposed a curfew in sensitive areas and deployed heavy security forces. More than 200 people were detained for their alleged involvement in the riots, and multiple FIRs were registered against those spreading communal hate and violence. The police confirmed that at least 34 police officers were injured while attempting to control the rioters.
Who is Fahim Khan?
Political Connections and Previous Controversies
Fahim Khan, aged 38, is the city president of the Minorities Democratic Party (MDP) and has been active in local politics for years. He previously contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Nagpur but lost by a huge margin. According to sources, Khan has been under police radar for his provocative speeches and alleged involvement in past incidents of communal tension.
Video Evidence of Instigation
A viral video surfaced on social media, allegedly showing Khan delivering a provocative speech that incited violence. The video, currently being analyzed by forensic teams, shows him urging people to protest aggressively against the supposed religious desecration. Police confirmed that Khan used social media platforms to spread false narratives, further escalating tensions.
Police Investigation and Arrest
How Fahim Khan Was Caught
Following the examination of CCTV footage, phone records, and social media activity, Nagpur Police tracked Fahim Khan’s location and arrested him from a hideout in the city’s outskirts. The arrest was carried out in a late-night raid on March 18, 2025, involving multiple teams from the Crime Branch and Intelligence Unit.
Legal Charges and FIR Details
Khan has been booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Indian Penal Code (IPC) Sections 153A (Promoting enmity between groups), 295A (Deliberate acts to outrage religious feelings), and 505 (Statements conducing to public mischief). The police have also added cybercrime charges for spreading misinformation on digital platforms.
Political and Public Reaction
Maharashtra Government’s Response
Maharashtra’s Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the Home Ministry portfolio, condemned the violence, stating that the government would take strict action against those inciting communal hatred. He assured that no political pressure would influence the investigation and that all guilty parties would be brought to justice.
Public Outrage and Demands for Stricter Laws
Following the riots, several citizen groups and activists have demanded stricter laws against those spreading communal hate. Many local leaders have urged for better social media monitoring to prevent the spread of false information that fuels such conflicts.
Current Situation in Nagpur
Curfew and Security Measures
As of March 19, 2025, the situation in Nagpur remains tense but under control. Authorities have extended Section 144 restrictions in sensitive areas to prevent further unrest. Over 500 additional security personnel have been deployed, and intelligence agencies are monitoring online activities to prevent the spread of further inciteful content.
More Arrests Expected
Police have hinted at more arrests in the coming days as investigations continue. Senior officers confirmed that dozens of individuals are still under surveillance, and those involved in planning or executing the riots will face strict legal action.
Moving Ahead
The arrest of Fahim Khan marks a critical step in cracking down on instigators of communal violence. The Nagpur riots highlight the danger of misinformation and provocative rhetoric, which can have devastating consequences. As authorities work towards restoring peace and ensuring justice, this case serves as a strong warning against those who exploit religious sentiments for personal or political gains.
By – Nikita
