Violence Escalates in Maratha Reservation Protests; Internet Suspended in Maharashtra Areas, Protesters Target Political Leaders
Amid Maratha reservation stir, 141 cases been registered, 168 protesters arrested, and a community-wide 'Black Diwali' observed as state-run bus and internet services halt in Maharashtra.
- The Maratha quota protests in Maharashtra have intensified with incidents of violence, including arson and rioting, leading to the suspension of both bus and internet services in several districts.
- Protesters have blackened posters of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis in Bhiwandi and targeted homes of political leaders, while security has been increased outside the CM's residence in Thane.
- Members of Maratha Kranti Morcha (MKM), lawyers, and farmers are asserting that Marathas are considered Kunbis - which would make them eligible for reservation under the OBC category - according to records from the pre-Independence and Nizam era.
- In response to the state government's decision to extend Maratha reservation within the law's framework, Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil has vowed to continue fasting until the entire community's reservation is officially announced.
- Amid the surging protests, Maharashtra Police have registered 141 cases related to the violence and arrested 168 protesters, and a community-wide 'Black Diwali' was observed in Nashik.
