Nagpur Municipality Demolishes 'Unauthorised' House Of Fahim Khan, Accused Of Violence Over Aurangzeb Tomb Protests

On Monday (24 March), the civic authorities demolished the residence of Fahim Khan, a Minority Democratic Party (MDP) leader who has been charged with sedition relating to the Nagpur violence against protests over Aurangzeb's tomb, The New Indian Express reported.

At approximately 10.30 in the morning, three JCB machines belonging to the Nagpur Municipal Corporation initiated the demolition of a house situated in the Sanjay Bagh Colony within the Yashodhara Nagar area. The demolition process was conducted under strict security measures and monitored by drone surveillance.

According to municipal sources, the measures were implemented in accordance with the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act, due to the building being constructed without proper authorisation.

Khan, presently incarcerated, is one of over 100 individuals, predominantly Muslims, apprehended due to the unrest in Nagpur, Maharashtra on 17 March. The local Muslim population has alleged that the police are making indiscriminate arrests and demonstrating prejudice against their community.

Eight members from Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal turned themselves in to the police two days post the violent incident, however, they were granted bail from the court on the very same evening.

Cyber DCP Lohit Matani has described Fahim Khan as the "key accused" in the violence who is accused of "editing and circulating the video of the protest against Aurangzeb due to which the riots spread." He also allegedly "glorified the violent videos."

In light of recent events of community-driven violence, similar to the incident in Sambhal, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared on Saturday that they will employ "bulldozer action" against the perpetrators if deemed necessary.

"Whatever damage has happened will be recovered from the rioters. If they do not pay the money, then their property will be sold for the recovery. Wherever required, bulldozers will also be used," Fadnavis was quoted as saying by ANI.

This comes amid Supreme Court's directive against 'bulldozer justice' as it said on Sambhal action, "Authorities have failed to follow the basic principles of natural justice and have acted without adhering to the principle of due process."