Nagpur Riots: Bombay HC Grants Bail To 9 Accused In Aurangzeb Tomb Protest Violence Case

Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Wednesday granted bail to nine persons arrested for allegedly participating in the March 17 riots in Nagpur, triggered by demands to remove Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) district.

Justice Urmila Joshi-Phalke of the Nagpur bench granted bail noting that the investigation in the case was complete and the custody of the accused was no longer required.

“Considering the investigation is already completed and chargesheet is already filed, no purpose will be served by keeping applicants behind the bar. Trial will take its own time for final disposal,” the court observed.

The accused — Mohammad Iqbal Ansari, Absar Ansari, Izhar Ansari, Ejaz Ansari, Ashfaqulla Aminullah, Muzammil Ansari, Mohammad Rahil, Mohammad Yasir, and Iftekar Ansari — were granted bail on furnishing a personal bond of ₹1 lakh each with one solvent surety.

Large-scale violence had broken out in Nagpur on March 17 after rumours circulated that a chadar with holy inscriptions was burnt during protests by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP). Over 120 people were arrested, including 19 juveniles. As many as 33 police personnel, including three Deputy Commissioners of Police, were injured in the mob violence that involved stone-pelting, arson, and use of petrol bombs.

The court noted in its order, “mob of 500 to 600 people attacked them (police), caused injuries to officers, and also damaged government and private vehicles.”

Some of the accused were arrested from the spot and others were identified through CCTV footage, mobile location data, and witness statements. The court also noted the role of a WhatsApp group called “Sunni Youth Force,” allegedly used to mobilise the mob.

While recognising the seriousness of the offence, the judge cautioned against prejudging the matter at the bail stage. “Admittedly, at the stage of granting bail, an elaborate examination of evidence and detailed reasons touching merits of case, which may prejudice the accused, should be avoided,” she said.

However, the court made it clear that the accused must comply with bail conditions strictly. They are required to report to the police station twice a month and attend all trial proceedings without fail. “One single registration of a crime of similar nature would lead to cancellation of bail,” the court warned.

The applicants were also directed not to threaten or influence witnesses or tamper with evidence.