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Mumbai has come to a standstill due to the ongoing Maratha quota protest led by activist Manoj Jarange. The Bombay High Court, expressing concern, issued directives requiring the Maharashtra government to restore normalcy, ensure no additional protesters enter the city, and uphold legal procedures (The Siasat Daily).
Justice Ravindra Ghuge and Justice Gautam Ankhad emphasized that the protest lacks valid authorization and violates agreed-upon conditions. They urged the state to take immediate action (The Siasat Daily).
Protest Escalates Amid Hunger Strike and Citywide Disruptions
- Jarange Intensifies Protest: Now in his fourth day of fasting at Azad Maidan, Jarange announced he would stop drinking water as well, underscoring the seriousness of his demand for Maratha inclusion in the OBC quota (The Times of India, The Economic Times).
- Traffic Gridlock and Public Inconvenience: The agitation has choked traffic in South Mumbai, with roads around CSMT and Azad Maidan severely impacted. Heavy police deployment and diversions are in place (The Economic Times, News Arena India).
- Government’s Legal Response: CM Fadnavis assured compliance with the HC’s directives and stressed that talks must follow due process. A cabinet sub-committee, led by Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil, is reviewing historical records and legal frameworks to craft a sustainable solution (The Siasat Daily, The Times of India).
Tensions Rise Over Reservation Equity
- OBC Concerns: OBC leaders have launched counter-protests, warning that expanding quotas to include Marathas may dilute the benefits of existing OBC communities (The Times of India, The Economic Times).
- Political Pressure Mounts: The Congress reminded the government of unfulfilled pledges regarding Maratha reservations, suggesting political undercurrents amid the agitation (The Times of India).
Summary Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Court Concern | Protest lacks valid permit; HC orders city cleared by Sept 2 |
| Activist Action | Jarange intensifies indefinite hunger-and-thirst strike |
| Government Plan | Legal committee explores Gazette-based quota; compliance pledged |
| Public Strain | South Mumbai experiences severe traffic bottlenecks and daily disruptions |
| Community Rift | Rising tensions between Maratha aspirants and existing OBC communities |
