In a recent video, leftist rag The Wire has once again demonstrated its penchant for peddling biased narratives by squarely blaming Hindus and the film Chhaava for the recent communal tensions in Nagpur. This sensationalized and one-sided account not only distorts the facts but also fuels division by targeting a specific community and cultural expression.
The report, which heavily relies on the opinions of ‘journalist‘ Nikhil Wagle, attempts to paint the Nagpur riots as a pre-planned conspiracy orchestrated by Hindu organizations and the BJP-led state government. It alleges that the film Chhaava, which depicts the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, was used as a tool to incite violence against Muslims. However, this narrative conveniently ignores the complexities of the situation, and the role of all stakeholders involved.
Misrepresentation Of Facts
Wagle claims that the riots were a direct result of Hindu organizations targeting the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, with the film Chhaava serving as a catalyst. While it is true that tensions escalated following protests and counter-protests over Aurangzeb’s legacy, they fail to acknowledge the provocative actions and inflammatory rhetoric from the Islamists. Instead, he singles out Hindu groups and the film, portraying them as the sole instigators of violence.
Wagle also alleges that the state government and police were complicit in the riots, citing instances of inaction. Wagle says, “I believe that the Devendra Fadnavis government was aware that something is going to happen because of this agitation, that riots will be sparked. The Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was himself involved in instigating the feelings of the people. He was the one who said that Aurangzeb’s tomb must be destroyed but I cannot do that because 50 years ago, it was given security and it has archival values and the Congress government has preserved it. Nitesh Rane always instigates through his speeches, Raja Singh also does it but Devendra Fadnavis on the floor of the house has made an instigatory speech against Aurangzeb’s tomb. I allege that Devendra Fadnavis wants riots in Maharashtra, he wants the Phule-Ambedkar legacy to be destroyed, and that the ideology of Hedgewar, Golwalkar, and Savarkar be established here.”
The Wire has declared Hindus and the movie Chhava as the culprits of the Nagpur riots.
Islamists came, torched Hindu vehicles, injured dozens of Hindus, but still, Hindus are the culprits.
How dare they make a movie showing historical facts without a liberal agenda?… pic.twitter.com/VWZNxaMoBY
— Political Kida (@PoliticalKida) March 18, 2025
The Wire’s decision to blame Chhaava for the riots is particularly egregious. The film, which celebrates the legacy of a revered Maratha king, is a cultural expression that resonates with millions of Hindus. By linking it to the violence, The Wire demonizes Hindu sentiments. This is a clear attempt to stoke cultural and religious divisions rather than fostering understanding and dialogue.
The interview conveniently glosses over the role of Islamist organizations and leaders in escalating tensions. It fails to mention the inflammatory speeches and actions such as torching Hindu businesses, vehicles, injuring Hindus and such – that have been the reason behind the unrest. By presenting a one-sided narrative, The Wire does a disservice to its readers and perpetuates a dangerous us-versus-them mentality. It is the Hindus who are the victims and not otherwise.
This is not the first time The Wire has reported in a biased manner, covering up facts – here are 31 instances of fake news peddled by the pro-Congress leftist propaganda rag.
By blaming Hindus and Chhaava for the violence, it ignores the complexities of the situation and fuels communal tensions. Instead of promoting dialogue and understanding, The Wire has chosen to fan the flames of division.
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