Nagpur Civic Authorities Demolish House of Key Accused in Violence

In a move following violent unrest in Nagpur, civic authorities demolished the two-storey house of Fahim Khan, a key accused in the March 17 violence. Khan, a leader of the Minority Democratic Party (MDP), faces charges including sedition and is one of over 100 people arrested in connection with the violence. The house, which was built without proper approvals and on land with an expired lease, was demolished under heavy police security and drone surveillance on Monday morning.

The demolition, carried out by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation using three JCB machines, took place in the Sanjay Bagh Colony in Yashodhara Nagar. The house, registered in Khan’s mother’s name, lacked any sanction plan and was constructed illegally, prompting the authorities to act under the MRTP Act. A 24-hour notice was given before the demolition began, which was fully barricaded for safety.

The violence that erupted on March 17 was triggered by rumors about religious disrespect during a VHP protest, leading to stone-pelting and arson across Nagpur. Several police officers were injured, and widespread damage occurred. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has stated that those responsible for the violence will face stern action, and damaged property will be recovered from the rioters.