The Bombay High Court ordered the vacating of all roads by September 2 and stated that Maratha Reservation Protestors cannot occupy Mumbai streets indefinitely. Demonstrations must be limited to designated protest grounds.
Manoj Jarange Patil, Maratha reservation activist, began an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan in South Bombay on August 29, demanding 10% reservation under the OBC category by granting the Kunbi caste Certificate to Marathas based on the historical gazette record.
On the fourth day of protest, Mr. Jarange announced his protest to move one step ahead by announcing he would stop drinking water, intensifying the protest. Meanwhile, in the bad weather conditions, the Marathas are continuing to gather in Azad Maidan, from all over Marathwada and Maharashtra, reminding Mumbai belongs to the Marathi people. The protest drew tens of thousands, setting up tents and medical facilities while causing traffic in South Mumbai.
The Bombay High Court took suo motu cognisance of the situation after complaints of massive traffic jams, business disruptions, and civic difficulties. The HC ruled that public spaces cannot be occupied indefinitely without permission. HC stated that the protest must occur in designated areas. The HC directed Mr. Jarange and protestors to clear all streets of Mumbai — except Azad Maidan by September 2, Tuesday, to restore civic normality in the Financial Capital of India, and Maharashtra.
Manoj Jarange publicly reminded the protestors to adhere to the HC’s directives by urging them not to roam the streets of Mumbai, to park the vehicles in designated or allotted spots, and to avoid inconvenience to Mumbai’s citizens. While he reaffirmed that he will remain until demands are met. He warned against the anti-social elements of misusing the agitation. Mr. Jarange projects the protest as moral and lawful.
Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis convened meetings with deputies, legal advisors, and the cabinet sub-committee to explore legally sound solutions via historical evidence. He said the Quota will be given only within the constitutional framework, as the government cannot breach the Supreme Court’s 50% cap without strong legal backing.
Opposition leader Supriya Sule (NCP), Abu Asim Azim (Samajwadi Party), and other leaders visited Azad Maidan to back Jarange. They criticised the government for delaying justice. While Rashtriya OBC Mahasangh and others launched a counter-protest, warning that the Maratha inclusion will eat into the existing OBC quota.
