Fahim Khan faces sedition charges in Nagpur riots

FIRs have been filed regarding recent riots in Nagpur, with a local politician, Fahim Shamim Khan, being accused of inciting violence. Khan, who leads the Minorities Democratic Party, had called for protests against Hindu groups that he claimed burned a religious cloth during a demonstration. On March 17, Khan approached police about protests by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal. He alleged that these groups were seeking to remove a tomb associated with a Mughal emperor and disrespected religious symbols. Despite his complaint, riots erupted in the city shortly afterward. Khan and 51 others have been charged under multiple penal codes, including accusations of unlawful assembly and promoting communal disharmony. The police claim Khan led a mob and spread false information on social media, inciting further unrest. More FIRs have been filed since, increasing the total count to nine. Included in the allegations are serious charges involving violence against police officers, including an incident of assault against a female officer. The FIRs cite extensive damage during the riots, including attacks on vehicles and buildings in various neighborhoods. On the other side, VHP and Bajrang Dal members have also faced legal action for their protests prior to the riots. Nine leaders were booked for violating police orders but were quickly released on bail, raising questions about the fairness of the charges. Leaders from the Muslim community have criticized the police for being lenient with those involved in the initial protests.