Mumbai's Azad Maidan is being cleared following an order from the Bombay High Court. A debate occurred between supporters of Maratha reservation movement leader Manoj Jarange and the police. Four ministers from the Maharashtra government arrived to meet Jarange.
Mumbai: Mumbai's Azad Maidan is being evacuated after an order from the Bombay High Court. Police are in the process of removing supporters of Manoj Jarange, who has been on a hunger strike for the past four days over Maratha reservation. During this time, four cabinet ministers from the Maharashtra government arrived at Azad Maidan to meet Manoj Jarange. Security has been increased around the stage. The High Court had ordered that the ground be cleared by 3 PM. A debate also took place between the police and supporters, but efforts are being made to control the situation.
Administration Increases Security at Azad Maidan
The police had increased security around Azad Maidan since this morning. The Bombay High Court had clearly ordered that the ground must be cleared by 3 PM. During the police action, a debate and minor scuffles were observed between supporters and the police. Tuesday marked the fifth day of Manoj Jarange's fast-unto-death protest.
A delegation from the Maharashtra government also arrived at Azad Maidan during this period. Ministers Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Shivendra Raje Bhosale, Jaykumar Gore, and Manikrao Kokate were present at the ground to meet Manoj Jarange. The ministers reviewed the situation on Jarange's stage and informed the protestors about the assurances given by the government.
Ministers Give Important Assurances to Protestors
According to Jarange Patil, information regarding the Kunbi certificates issued to 5.8 million members of the Maratha community will be disseminated down to the Gram Panchayat level. Additionally, the process of withdrawing cases registered against protestors will be undertaken. The ministers also assured financial assistance and employment for the families of those who died during the protest.
Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil stated that the Hyderabad Gazetteer will be implemented for Maratha reservation, and the process of granting it legal recognition will be expedited. Shivendra Raje Bhosale assured the implementation of the Satara Gazetteer. Jarange Patil said that the government should complete the process for the Satara and immediate Hyderabad Gazetttes within one month.
Manoj Jarange Appeals to Supporters to Maintain Peace
Following the arrival of the ministers at Azad Maidan and the discussions, a sense of satisfaction was observed among the protestors. The ministers reassured Jarange Patil of the government's commitment and assured that the reservation process would be completed according to the committee's suggestions.
Manoj Jarange also appealed to his supporters to maintain peace. He stated that any form of violence or disruption to public order should be avoided. Jarange clarified that the court's order would be complied with, and the administration would be cooperated with.
Bombay High Court's Strict Order
The Bombay High Court had issued clear directives that the evacuation of Azad Maidan was mandatory and that any violation of the order would not be tolerated. The court had asked both parties—the government and the protestors—to comply with this order. On Monday as well, the court had urged the protestors to clear the roads and restore normalcy.
