Mumbai has come to a standstill due to the ongoing Maratha reservation movement. The Bombay High Court has ordered Azad Maidan vacated by Wednesday morning due to deteriorating law and order. Following strict action by the court, Manoj Jarange expressed readiness to end his hunger strike provided the government meets his conditions.
The government has agreed to certain demands, announcing the implementation of the Hyderabad Gazetteer, thus recognizing Marathas as Kunbi, benefiting from reservation as they are part of the OBC category in Maharashtra.
The government seeks time over the Satara Gazette, with Minister Shivrendra Raje Bhosale taking charge.
Cases Against Protesters to be Withdrawn
The government agreed to withdraw cases against protesters at Antarvali Sarati, the site of clashes with the police.
Read more: Police clearing Azad Maidan, Jarange's declaration - vehicles will leave Mumbai, only 5000 will remain
Jarange Will Leave Mumbai Upon GR Issuance
Manoj Jarange stated he would not leave Mumbai until a Government Resolution (GR) on his conditions is issued. Once issued, he will depart by 9 PM.
The government assures case withdrawal against Maratha protesters by September's end, promising financial support to deceased protesters' families and Transport Corporation jobs.
High Court's Stern Remarks
The Bombay High Court harshly commented on the protest's disruption of key areas like CSMT, Churchgate, and Marine Drive, urging Jarange to maintain peace post orders.
Jarange's Demands
1. Kunbi Status for Marathas - Demand for Marathas to be included in the Kunbi caste to avail OBC reservation benefits.
2. Government Order Issuance - Seeking directives for assured reservation in government jobs and education for Marathas.
3. Withdrawal of All Old FIRs - Demanding withdrawal of all police cases/FIRs against Maratha protesters.
4. Police Actions - Demanding dismissal of officers who acted against protesters.
5. Safety of Maratha Protesters - Seeking protection for protesters and prevention of police repression.
Exploring the reservation distribution in Maharashtra, Scheduled Tribes receive 7%, Scheduled Castes (SC/SC-Buddhist) 13%, Denotified Tribes (VJNT-A) 3%, Nomadic Tribes 1 (NT-B) 2.5%, Nomadic Tribes 2 (NT-C) 3.5%, Nomadic Tribes 3 (NT-D) 2%, Other Backward Classes (OBC) 19%, Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) 10%, and Social/Educational Backward Classes (SEBC) 10% (applies in some new districts).
