Over 1,500 Police Deployed as Manoj Jarange Protests in Mumbai

The Mumbai Police have mobilized over 1,500 personnel at Azad Maidan to maintain law and order during activist Manoj Jarange’s indefinite fast, which began on August 29, 2023. Jarange is advocating for the inclusion of the Maratha community in the Kunbi category, which would enable them to receive reservation benefits in government jobs and education.

On August 26, Jarange departed from his home village of Antarwali Sarati in Jalna district, accompanied by thousands of supporters. Prior to reaching Mumbai, he paid tribute at Shivneri Fort, the birthplace of the legendary Maratha king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. His hunger strike aims to draw attention to the demand for a 10 percent quota for Marathas under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.

Extensive Security Measures in Place

Anticipating a significant turnout, police officials expect more than 20,000 protesters to gather at Azad Maidan. In response, comprehensive security arrangements have been established to prevent disturbances and maintain public order. Alongside local police, forces from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Rapid Action Force (RAF), and Maharashtra Security Force (MSF) are present to ensure safety during the demonstration.

Some units initially deployed for the ongoing Ganesh festival security have been redirected to assist in managing the Maratha quota protest. Authorities have granted Jarange permission for a one-day demonstration, limiting the number of attendees to 5,000.

As the protest approaches, participants from throughout the state have begun to assemble at Azad Maidan, highlighting the escalating tensions surrounding the reservation issue.

Jarange’s Journey to Mumbai

On his journey to the protest, Jarange visited the base of Shivneri Fort in Pune district, where he was met by hundreds of supporters. His pilgrimage to honor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj underscores the cultural significance of his cause. While traveling, Jarange received a call from Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, indicating that a government delegation would meet him to discuss his demands.

The activist’s recent actions reflect a growing movement within the Maratha community, which seeks to secure affirmative action to improve their socio-economic standing. Jarange’s fast aims not only to raise awareness but also to pressure the government into addressing the community’s longstanding demands.

As the protest unfolds, attention will be focused on both the activists’ commitment and the government’s response to their requests. The outcome of this demonstration could significantly impact future discussions surrounding reservation policies in Maharashtra.