• Source:JND
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In a significant blow to the Maratha quota protest at Mumbai's Azad Maidan, the Bombay High Court on Monday raised sharp objections to the way the agitation was proceeding. The HC observed that the protest violated all conditions and brought the entire city to a standstill.

A High Court bench of Justices Ravindra Ghuge and Gautam Ankhad was hearing a petition challenging the ongoing protests. The bench noted that Manoj Jarange was given a one-day permission for a hunger strike and that it was not for an indefinite strike.

Besides, the permission was also given for only 5,000 participants, but the number increased significantly, causing inconvenience in the city. 

The HC also asked the Maharashtra government to file a response detailing the steps taken to address the law and order and traffic situation in the state capital.

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The court also directed the authorities to clear the road by tomorrow (Tuesday) at 4 pm, to ensure free flow of traffic movement. The High Court also gave a chance to Jarange and his supporters to rectify the situation and ensure all streets are vacated by Tuesday.

The court made stern remarks, saying that the protest must be held at Azad Maidan for where the permission was given, and not anywhere else. The court listed the case on Tuesday at 3 pm. 

Jaranage is on an indefinite hunder strike which entered fourth day today. Initially permitted for one day, the Mumbai Police has been giving an extention by a day since then.

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Yesterday, the talks between the government fomed panel and Jarange failed after which the Maratha quota protestor lashed out at the Maharashtra government, saying that even if CM Devendr Fadnavis orders firing bullets, the protest will not stop.

Jarange vowed to continue to indefinite hunger strike till all the demands are met. It is the seveth such protest  by Jarange with a key demand of 10 per cent reservation for the Maratha community within the Other backward Castes (OBC).

(With PTI Inputs)