19 Jan 2024 | 05:53 AM UTC
India: Indefinite sit-in protest by Maratha activists to occur at Azad Maidan in Mumbai from Jan. 26
Maratha groups to hold indefinite sit-in protest at Azad Maidan, Mumbai, India from Jan. 26. Localized disruptions likely; clashes possible.
Activists from the Maratha community will hold an indefinite sit-in protest/hunger strike at Azad Maidan in Mumbai from Jan. 26. The action will begin at Antarwali Sarathi village in Jalna, where participants will march across several cities Jan. 20-25, including Ahmednagar, Beed, and Pune, before arriving in Mumbai. The action is part of a series of violent demonstrations that have occurred across Maharashtra State over long-standing demands to guarantee Other Backward Class (OBC) caste certificates to all Marathas. While organizers expect a hundred thousand participants, attendance levels will likely be lower. Previous rallies have prompted mass arrests and clashes between activists and police. Activists announced their intent to protest nationwide in the coming weeks until officials agree to their demands; additional unannounced solidarity protests across the state are possible.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are certain along the march route, and especially around Azad Maidan from Jan. 26. Authorities may tighten security around government buildings across Maharashtra State as a precaution. Security personnel previously used batons and tear gas to disperse crowds during well-attended rallies in 2023. Violent altercations remain possible, especially if police attempt to disperse gatherings forcibly. Police may impose traffic restrictions, including security cordons, diversions, and road closures around Azad Maidan. Activists and accompanying vehicular entourage are likely to march on or block roadways, exacerbating transport disruptions. Increased congestion and demand for public transport are also probable as a large number of attendees arrive at and leave rally sites. Local businesses may close as a precaution during planned demonstrations or if significant clashes occur.
Avoid all protests and navigating roadblocks due to the threat of violence; confirm road status and plan for possible delays when attempting travel. Monitor trusted local media for updates on rallies and road conditions, as organizers may not announce demonstrations in advance. If any violence breaks out nearby, leave the area and seek shelter at a safe, nongovernment building. Heed all traffic and security advisories.
The politically influential Maratha community makes up over 30 percent of the population in Maharashtra State. Several Maratha groups have protested periodically in the past decades over the community's long-standing demand for job and education reservations. Following violent protests in 2018, the state government granted Marathas reservation under the Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) Act. However, the Supreme Court of India ruled the decision as illegal, citing it breached existing reservation limits. Maratha groups have warned of indefinite protests until the government enacts measures to guarantee reservation for the community.
