VHP demands removal of Aurangzeb’s grave after riots
Violence erupted in Nagpur following protests against a grave belonging to Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The riots led to arson and attacks on public property. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) continued to demand the removal of the grave on March 18, 2025. VHP's general secretary, Milind Parande, condemned the violence and claimed it was executed by a segment of the minority community. He stated that members of the VHP and their homes were specifically targeted during the riots. Parande referred to the violence as shameful and called for strict action against those responsible. He also advocated for the construction of a memorial for historical figures who fought against Aurangzeb, such as Dhanaji Jadhav and Santaji Ghorpade. Parande insisted that the glorification of Aurangzeb's grave should end and urged for a 'Vijay Smarak' to honor those victorious against the Mughal emperor instead.