Maratha reservation protest: over 300 individuals face legal action following violence

Jalna: In Maharashtra's Jalna, a protest demanding reservation for the Maratha community escalated into violence, resulting in injuries to several individuals, including police personnel.

The demonstration, led by activist Manoj Jarange, had commenced with a hunger strike at Antarwali Sarathi village in Jalna on Tuesday, calling for Maratha community reservation. The situation turned tumultuous when police attempted to transfer Jarange to a hospital upon medical advice.

During this incident, protesters began pelting stones at police officers, leading to injuries among the law enforcement officials. Some individuals targeted state transport buses and private vehicles.

To restore order, the police resorted to baton charges and deployed teargas shells to disperse the unruly crowd. Local residents claimed that police fired warning shots into the air, although these reports remain unconfirmed by officials.

Over 300 individuals have been named in police cases for their alleged involvement in the violent clashes.

In response to the situation, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde issued a plea for peace and announced the establishment of a high-level committee to investigate the violence.

The Chief Minister emphasised the government's commitment to providing reservations for the Maratha community and urged against resorting to violence. He cited previous efforts under former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to grant such reservations, which were later nullified by the Supreme Court.

Shinde said, "The state government is taking this issue seriously, and we will welcome any suggestions. I appeal to the protesters to maintain peace to prevent hardships for the general public."

The use of force against the protesters has drawn condemnation from the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT). Both Shiv Sena (UBT) Chief Uddhav Thackeray and Nationalist Congress Party Chief Sharad Pawar are expected to visit the troubled village later in the day.