In a demonstration near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) on Friday, hundreds of Maratha protesters disrupted traffic, causing inconvenience for commuters. The agitators, en route to Azad Maidan, gathered at the intersection near CSMT and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters, leading to a temporary halt in traffic flow.
Police intervention prompted a request for the protesters to relocate to Azad Maidan, resulting in the closure of Mahapalika Marg and D N Road from noon onwards, with diversions in place. Meanwhile, Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange and a substantial number of supporters reached Navi Mumbai, prompting efforts by the government to dissuade them from entering Mumbai.
Fadnavis calls for peace; Opposition accuses government of deception
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized the right to peaceful protest but urged maintaining law and order. Opposition leaders accused the government, asserting that it is deceiving the Marathas. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar expressed support for Maratha reservation, while State Congress president Nana Patole called for the removal of the 50% cap on reservations.
NCP working president Supriya Sule accused the government of manipulating the situation, echoing concerns raised by the Maratha community. As the agitation continued, Jarange insisted on pressing forward with the demand for Maratha reservation in government jobs and education.
Jarange’s resolve amidst government statements
Maratha quota leader Manoj Jarange declared his commitment to the agitation until their demands for reservation were met. Despite Minister Deepak Kesarkar stating that the activist’s demands had been accepted, Jarange emphasized that the protest would persist until concrete actions were taken.
Jarange, after receiving documents from a government delegation, vowed to discuss the next steps with his supporters. As the government attempted to dissuade him from entering Mumbai, police issued a notice denying permission for Jarange’s hunger strike at Azad Maidan, citing potential disruptions to the city’s transport system.
Republic Day concerns and negotiations
Police expressed concerns over the protest coinciding with Republic Day events, suggesting alternative locations for the gathering. Jarange reassured that the Maratha agitation would not disrupt Republic Day celebrations and called for direct discussions with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar.
As a delegation met Jarange to dissuade him, negotiations continued, and Navi Mumbai police requested a route change due to a hospital along the planned march route. The situation remains tense as both sides strive for a resolution amid ongoing demonstrations.