Is the Maharashtra Government Violating Court Orders Regarding Protests?
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Synopsis
The Bombay High Court reprimanded the Maharashtra government for failing to adhere to its protest regulations, leading to significant disruptions in Mumbai due to Maratha quota supporters. This decision comes amid ongoing hunger strikes and increasing public unrest.
Key Takeaways
- The Bombay High Court has ordered the Maharashtra government to control protests and prevent Maratha quota supporters from entering the city.
- Manoj Jarange-Patil's hunger strike has drawn significant attention to the Maratha reservation issue.
- Traffic disruptions have been severe due to the influx of protesters.
- The court has suggested relocating protests to Navi Mumbai's Kharghar area.
- The government has been urged to take responsibility and address public safety concerns.
Mumbai, Sep 1 (NationPress) The Bombay High Court has expressed concern regarding the Maharashtra government's noncompliance with its previous directive limiting protests to Azad Maidan. The court has mandated actions to prevent Maratha quota advocates from entering Mumbai.
Justices Ravindra V. Ghuge and Gautam A. Ankhad have granted an additional two days to the government to restore order, as the ongoing protests and significant gatherings of Maratha quota supporters have disrupted the city.
This ruling was made during a special session addressing a petition by the Amy Foundation, coinciding with Manoj Jarange-Patil's hunger strike, which has entered its fourth day.
The petition highlighted public disturbances caused by the influx of protesters, asserting that the presence of thousands in the city has resulted in severe traffic congestion.
A video presented to the court depicted protesters dancing at a traffic signal, leading the judges to remark to the Maratha Community's attorney, “Are you aware your supporters are behaving uncontrollably?”
“Could you urge the activists to remain within Azad Maidan?” the court inquired of the Maratha Community's lawyer.
Advocate General Birendra Saraf, representing the state, assured the court that the government was committed to resolving the situation and did not intend to evade its responsibilities.
Previously, a petition was filed contesting the police's authorization for Jarange-Patil to conduct a hunger strike in the city, which had been extended beyond the initial day.
On Monday, Jarange-Patil declared he would abstain from water until the government enacts Maratha reservation under the OBC category, seeking a 10% quota.
Since Monday morning, numerous pro-Maratha reservation activists and Jarange-Patil's backers arrived at Azad Maidan, causing significant traffic snarls on routes leading into South Mumbai.
In response to the large crowd, the Mumbai Police issued a traffic advisory on X, expressing regret over the inconvenience to commuters caused by the influx of people and vehicles for the ongoing protest. They emphasized their efforts to minimize disruption.
Last week, the court suggested relocating the protest venue to the Kharghar area of Navi Mumbai.
According to police and Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation sources, all roads leading to Mumbai CSMT and the municipality will be closed for traffic.
Vehicles arriving in Mumbai via the JJ Flyover will be rerouted through the Mumbai Police Commissionerate and then to Metro Junction or Churchgate Station. The road near the primary entrance of Azad Maidan, leading from Metro Junction to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), will also be shut.
Point of View
The court's intervention highlights the delicate balance between the right to protest and the necessity of maintaining public order. As the situation evolves, it is crucial for both the government and the activists to engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve tensions without further escalating disruptions in Mumbai.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Bombay High Court's intervention?
The Bombay High Court intervened due to the Maharashtra government's failure to comply with a prior order restricting protests to Azad Maidan, resulting in significant unrest and traffic disruptions.
Who is Manoj Jarange-Patil?
Manoj Jarange-Patil is a Maratha quota activist who is currently on a hunger strike demanding a 10% reservation for Marathas under the OBC category.
What measures has the Mumbai Police taken in response to the protests?
The Mumbai Police have issued traffic advisories and closed roads leading to Mumbai CSMT and the municipality to manage the large gatherings of protesters.
Why is the Maratha quota issue significant?
The Maratha quota issue is significant as it pertains to economic and social equity, impacting the livelihoods and opportunities for the Maratha community in Maharashtra.
What is the current status of the protests?
The protests are ongoing, with a large number of activists gathered at Azad Maidan, causing traffic disruptions across Mumbai.
