Maratha protests: Agitators launch 'jail bharo' agitation in Mumbai
Maratha outfits launched a 'jail bharo andolan' today demanding reservation in jobs and education. Around 150 members will crowd prisons at Azad Maidan in Mumbai, they announced. Demonstrations will be peaceful, assured Maratha Kranti Morcha (MKM) Coordinator Amol Jadhavrao. He added the decision to launch this 'andolan' was taken after some protestors reportedly left the cause and joined the government's side.
The list of demands is growing
The list of demands is growing with every fresh round of protest. Agitators have now sought quota, farm loan waivers, punishment to the Kopardi rapists, withdrawal of cases against protesters, action against cops for firing and lathi-charge during the July 25 protests, and sacking of politicians who made "irresponsible" comments. They have also demanded compensation for those killed or injured during protests.
Protesters leaving the cause?
Talking about the reportedly diminishing support, Jadhavrao said, "We found that (some) individuals entered into negotiations with CM Devendra Fadnavis. Congress MLA Nitesh Rane named some of them on social media. So we decided to go our own way." "We have provided police with names of today's protesters to prevent unscrupulous elements from hijacking the movement." Sakal Maratha Morcha (SMM), which has lent support, is holding protests in Mumbai tomorrow.
Violence erupted in the recent wave of protests
On July 25, different groups had launched statewide protests. Roads were blocked, trains stopped and shops shut down. But after violence was reported, the demonstrations were called off midway. An MKM activist injured in clashes with police died last week. Two killed themselves last month to press for reservation, and another who attempted suicide is undergoing treatment. Yesterday's protests were mostly calm.
Protesters reportedly refuse to speak to government after 'unfulfilled promises'
On July 27, Fadnavis invited party leaders to discuss the protests. He has also held talks with BJP ministers and Maratha leaders. But Jadhavrao called it "tokenism." Though the CM has said he will fulfil their demands, there's still no written order, he said. According to Firstpost, protesters at Azad Maidan today have refused to speak to the government due to its unfulfilled promises.
