The polarization of our nation via majoritarianism and Hindutva is relentless. The recent Nagpur riots over Aurangzeb who existed more than three decades ago and his ASI classified tomb was manufactured by politicians to keep the hate pot boiling. In this case a stupid remark by a Muslim politician that no one agrees with, a movie Chhaava on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, and communally loaded remarks made it a national issue. Violence erupted in Nagpur during a VHP agitation. They wanted the tomb destroyed like the Babri Masjid and FIRs were filed against the Bajrang Dal, VHP and others after violent riots where scores of policemen were injured, vehicles and property burnt/damaged, stone pelting, outsiders involved clearly shows administrative and police failure. If this was a pre-planned conspiracy as now alleged, why was there no intelligence and preventive action taken? It is high time Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and Mohan Bhagwat of the RSS rein in the over zealous politicians and empower the police to dispense equitable justice. The Opposition and minorities will reciprocate as trust is built by deeds.
