The Nagpur Police have arrested two individuals, including Santosh Gaur, in connection with the murder of Irfan Ansari, who succumbed to injuries sustained during the March 17 mob violence in the city.
According to officials at Tehsil police station, the second accused has also been taken into judicial custody alongside Gaur. The original FIR, which had been filed following the brutal attack on 38-year-old Irfan, was upgraded to a murder case after his death on Sunday, five days after the incident.
The violence on March 17 had erupted following rumours of a holy book desecration during a VHP and Bajrang Dal demonstration in Nagpur, demanding the removal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khuldabad.
Irfan’s brother, Imran Ansari, revealed that Irfan had left home that evening to catch a train to Itarsi for work. He initially took an autorickshaw, but the driver refused to go further due to escalating violence and dropped him near CA Road. Irfan continued on foot and was soon attacked by a violent mob, sustaining severe head injuries.
Despite brief moments of consciousness in the ICU where he recounted the ordeal, Irfan eventually succumbed to his injuries. Police brought him to the hospital, and staff later informed his family of his critical condition.
Irfan leaves behind a wife and daughter. His family has demanded strict punishment for those responsible for the brutal attack. Authorities have assured that investigations are ongoing, and justice will be pursued.
