Manoj Jarange Urges Maratha Protesters to Mobilise Towards Mumbai
Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil has urged community members across Maharashtra to gradually march towards Mumbai as his ongoing hunger strike at Antarwali Sarati entered its third day on Sunday. Jarange is demanding the implementation of Maratha reservation and prompt action on the issuance of Kunbi certificates.
Addressing supporters during the agitation, Jarange called on protesters to adopt what he described as a guerrilla warfare strategy and organise lodging ahead of the planned movement. He asked community members to coordinate with relatives and acquaintances living in Mumbai to arrange accommodation for the next six days.
Jarange stated that there are between one to two lakh Maratha households in Mumbai where protesters could stay temporarily. However, he instructed demonstrators to avoid visiting sensitive locations for the time being, specifically directing them to stay away from Azad Maidan and the Chief Minister's official residence, 'Varsha' bungalow.
Emphasising the need for an orderly demonstration, Jarange urged the crowd to ensure that the protest does not disrupt law and order or create complications for the police. He suggested that between five to fifty lakh Maratha youth should gradually move towards the city in the coming days while remaining disciplined. Protesters were also advised to cooperate fully with law enforcement authorities and appear before the police if summoned.
The activist's latest call has raised concerns regarding a potential large-scale mobilisation in Mumbai, particularly with the Ganeshotsav festival approaching. The influx of large numbers of demonstrators could pose significant challenges for the local administration in terms of traffic management and public order.
During a similar protest staged in the city last year around the Ganeshotsav period, the arrival of substantial crowds of Maratha demonstrators caused major traffic disruptions across parts of South Mumbai, prompting the police to enforce road closures and travel restrictions. The state administration has yet to formally outline its response to the proposed mobilisation.
