Mumbai Protest Disrupts City Life as Court Issues Ultimatum

The ongoing Maratha morcha in Mumbai, led by activist Manoj Jarange, has significantly disrupted city life, prompting the Bombay High Court to intervene. The court noted that the protest has not only failed to remain peaceful but also violated earlier agreements regarding its conduct. The court has given Jarange and his supporters until Tuesday noon to clear all streets in the city and restore normalcy.

Jarange’s hunger strike commenced at Azad Maidan on August 29, 2023, as he demands a 10 percent reservation for the Maratha community in government jobs and educational institutions under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. Reports indicate that he has stopped drinking water as of Monday, intensifying the urgency of the situation.

The court’s bench, comprising Justices Ravindra Ghuge and Gautam Ankhad, conducted a special hearing and expressed concern over the escalating tensions in the city. They observed that the protestors had deviated from the designated area at Azad Maidan and are obstructing key locations throughout South Mumbai, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Churchgate railway station, and the Marine Drive promenade.

“The situation is grim and the city of Mumbai has been practically brought to a standstill,” the court stated, emphasizing that the protest has not been conducted in accordance with the permissions granted. The judges highlighted that protesters have not only gathered in prohibited areas, but their actions have also prevented judges and lawyers from accessing the court.

The court has mandated Jarange and his supporters to rectify the situation immediately, vacate the streets, and clean up by Tuesday noon. In light of the violations, the judges emphasized that the state government must take appropriate measures to ensure the situation does not escalate further. They also expressed concerns about Jarange’s health, stating that if his condition deteriorates, medical assistance must be provided.

Advocate General Birendra Saraf informed the court that permission for the protest at Azad Maidan was only granted until August 29. He underscored that Jarange and his supporters have not adhered to any of the stipulated conditions. The court remarked that Jarange’s assurances to the police were merely “lip service,” given the extent of the disruption.

The judges raised questions about the government’s strategy in handling the protest, especially as Jarange warned that thousands more could join. They pressed for clarity on how the state plans to manage the situation, particularly during the ongoing Ganpati festival, which adds complexity to the response.

While acknowledging the right to protest, the court reiterated that such activities must occur within legal boundaries and without disrupting public life. “Protestors are bathing and cooking on the streets,” the court noted, underscoring the need for a balance between the rights of protesters and the needs of the general public.

The Bombay High Court will reconvene on Tuesday to further address the matter, following multiple petitions raising concerns about the protests spiraling out of control and impacting daily life in Mumbai.