Fresh application pending for Manoj Jarange’s proposed Mumbai agitation

Manoj Jarange Patil has begun travelling from Antarwali Sarati in Jalna district towards Mumbai, where he plans an agitation over Maratha community demands.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said permission for the proposed protest had been denied so far. Jarange has submitted a fresh application, Fadnavis said, and police will decide on it on its merits. The chief minister said a large gathering in Mumbai during Ganeshotsav could create law-and-order challenges, citing the crowds in Mumbai and Pune during the festival.

Jarange’s indefinite hunger strike entered its 18th day on Tuesday. He said the fight was for the welfare and future of children from the Maratha community, and appealed to supporters to remain united and peaceful.

Fadnavis said 12 of the community’s 13 demands had been accepted, while some matters were pending before courts. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also asked protesters to be patient and not disrupt Ganeshotsav in the city.