On the occasion of Republic Day, a multitude of Marathas, brandishing the Tricolour and saffron flags, converged upon Mumbai from various entry points in what marks the culmination of the "ultimate battle" for securing reservation in education and employment for the community, taking place on Friday.
Manoj Jarange-Patil, the President of Shivba Sanghatana, undertook a six-day march from Jalna to Mumbai, currently stationed in Vashi, Navi Mumbai. He declared the commencement of an indefinite hunger strike today to emphasize the community's demand for quotas. Concurrently, negotiations were conducted with government officials and representatives of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on a fresh set of proposals.
Following the discussions, Jarange-Patil revealed that the delegations have presented a new proposal. He expressed his intent to review it, consult with his expert team, and make a final decision today, as he readied himself to address a rally in the afternoon.
With a massive crowd almost at Mumbai's doorstep, the government is making last-minute attempts to persuade Jarange-Patil. The assurance of granting reservations is being conveyed, but he is urged to reconsider the vast assembly of Maratha supporters, which could potentially disrupt the country's commercial capital and create administrative, logistical, and law-and-order challenges.
Nana Patole, the President of the Opposition Congress, issued a stern warning, stating that "even if Jarange-Patil is touched, we will not spare the state government." He demanded comprehensive security for the Shivba Sanghatana leader.
A significant number of Marathas entering the city hailed from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, utilizing suburban trains from locations in Palghar, Thane, and Raigad. Additionally, residents of Mumbai joined in, converging at Dadar, Churchgate, or Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, contributing to the final push for reservation quotas, with many arriving by road.
(With Agency Inputs)
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