Overview

• Crowds far exceeded the 5,000-person cap, with police estimating tens of thousands as roads around CSMT were blocked, major corridors were closed and rail hubs grew congested.
• Mumbai Police granted an extension for the Azad Maidan protest into Saturday after initial permission expired at 6 pm, citing violations and warning organisers to maintain order.
• More than 1,500 police personnel were deployed with support from the CRPF, RAF, CISF and MSF under rules that limit protest timing, attendance and vehicles.
• Manoj Jarange vowed not to leave until demands are met and said he could stop drinking water within two days if there is no progress, while urging supporters to remain peaceful.
• Ministers including Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil signalled readiness for talks as a cabinet sub-committee weighs options constrained by the Supreme Court’s 50% reservation cap and OBC protections.