Thousands Protest for Maratha Reservation in Mumbai Amid Heavy Rain

Thousands of protesters in Mumbai, led by Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange, have taken to the streets demanding government action on their reservation requests. The protest, which began on October 27, 2023, has significantly disrupted daily life in the city, affecting traffic, work, and local events. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters, located near Azad Maidan, closed most of its entrances as protesters occupied nearby lanes, cooking and gathering despite the heavy downpour.

Protesters from regions including Marathwada, Vidarbha, Satara, Sangli, Pune, and Junnar have set up makeshift camps around the civic office. Many have taken refuge on footpaths or in vehicles while others prepared meals on the streets. A group of men outside the J.J. School of Art was seen cooking rice and vegetables, indicating their determination to remain until their demands are met.

The protesters have vowed to continue their demonstration, stating they will not leave until Jarange himself instructs them to do so. One participant, Vitthal Ambhure, a retired individual from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, expressed his commitment to the cause, saying, “I am prepared to live in the same condition for a couple of days so that the government gives OBC certificates to all Marathas from my district.” Another farmer from Parbhani highlighted the practical implications of the reservation, stating, “My cousin who scored 80% couldn’t get a government job, but her classmate got the job with 60% marks under a reserved category.”

The protest has had widespread effects on the city’s infrastructure. Local residents reported significant traffic disruptions, particularly in Breach Candy, where roads were blocked for several hours. One resident noted that the protest at around 12:30 PM halted southbound traffic along the Coastal Road near Amarsons Garden.

In response to the situation, several organizations had to cancel events planned for Friday evening, including a book launch at Kitabkhana in Fort. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) also announced its closure until further notice due to the protests, as indicated on their website.

Students and residents near the protest site have felt the impact as well. Tiasha Bose, a postgraduate student at the Xavier’s Institute of Communications, reported difficulties in receiving deliveries due to the protests, indicating how the situation has extended beyond the immediate vicinity of the protests.

As the protests continue, the city remains on high alert, monitoring the situation closely. The demands for Maratha reservations highlight ongoing social issues within Maharashtra, and many are watching to see how the government will respond in the coming days.