How is the Bombay High Court Responding to Maratha Quota Protests in Mumbai?
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Synopsis
The Bombay High Court held the Maharashtra government accountable for the chaos caused by nearly 5,000 vehicles from Maratha quota protesters. Urging for immediate action to restore order, the court has demanded an update by 3 p.m., stressing the urgency of clearing the roads for public safety and normalcy.
Key Takeaways
- The Bombay High Court demands immediate action from the Maharashtra government.
- Nearly 5,000 vehicles are involved in the Maratha quota protests.
- Authorities are warned of strict actions if congestion is not addressed.
- Manoj Jarange-Patil continues his indefinite fast until demands are met.
- Traffic disruptions are impacting daily life in Mumbai.
Mumbai, Sep 2 (NationPress) The Bombay High Court expressed its frustration on Tuesday over the Maharashtra government's failure to clear nearly 5,000 vehicles belonging to Maratha quota protesters that are clogging Mumbai's roads. The court has set a deadline of 3 p.m. for the situation to return to normal. Chief Justice Chandrashekhar and Justice Aarti Sathe admonished state counsel Satish Maneshinde, stating, "We should not see any vehicle of the protestors when we leave the court today."
The bench emphasized the need for the roads to be cleared of congestion swiftly, warning that strict action would be taken if the situation did not improve. "We want normalcy. Let the state government provide a report by 3 p.m. on the actions taken. Specify which vehicles are permitted and which are prohibited," stated CJI Chandrashekhar.
Inquiring about the number of vehicles and drivers involved in the protests, the court demanded, "What actions have been taken so far? Have you documented any evidence? How many schools have been closed? Residents are too frightened to leave their homes."
Expressing discontent over the authorities' inability to manage the protests effectively, the bench remarked, "There is no room for vehicles on the road, nor for judges to navigate within the court."
On the same day, Mumbai Police issued a notice to pro-Maratha quota leader Manoj Jarange-Patil, instructing him to evacuate Azad Maidan promptly due to repeated violations by his supporters, stating that the protest cannot continue.
This notice followed a Bombay High Court directive for the government to uphold law and order during the protests. Jarange-Patil, who commenced an indefinite hunger strike on August 29 advocating for Maratha community reservations from the OBC quota, has vowed to remain in Mumbai until the state enacts the reservation.
The police notice indicated that the conditions for the protest had been breached, necessitating immediate evacuation of Azad Maidan. The police noted they are taking Jarange-Patil's media statements seriously.
Since Monday morning, numerous pro-Maratha reservation supporters and Jarange-Patil’s affiliates have flocked to Azad Maidan, resulting in significant traffic delays on the routes connecting south Mumbai via the eastern express highway and Atal Setu.
Point of View
The ongoing Maratha quota protests in Mumbai highlight the urgent need for dialogue and effective policy-making. The Bombay High Court's intervention serves as a reminder of the judiciary's role in maintaining order while addressing societal demands. It is crucial for the Maharashtra government to respond proactively to restore normalcy and uphold public safety.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Bombay High Court's intervention?
The court intervened due to the Maharashtra government's failure to clear nearly 5,000 vehicles from Maratha quota protesters, which were causing severe traffic congestion in Mumbai.
What are the demands of the Maratha quota protesters?
The Maratha quota protesters, led by Manoj Jarange-Patil, are demanding reservation for the Maratha community under the OBC quota.
What action has the Bombay High Court taken?
The court has set a deadline for the Maharashtra government to restore normalcy by 3 p.m. and has warned of strict action if the situation does not improve.
What has the Mumbai Police done regarding the protests?
The Mumbai Police issued a notice to Manoj Jarange-Patil to vacate Azad Maidan due to repeated violations of protest conditions.
How are the protests affecting daily life in Mumbai?
The protests have caused significant traffic jams and raised safety concerns among residents, with fears of stepping out of their homes.
