The Bombay High Court has ordered Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange and his supporters to vacate Azad Maidan in Mumbai by 3 PM today, warning of contempt proceedings and exemplary costs if they fail to comply. The court’s directive comes after Jarange’s indefinite hunger strike and protest at Azad Maidan, which have paralyzed Mumbai and caused disruptions, including surrounding the High Court premises.
Jarange has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan since August 29, declaring that he would not leave the city until his demands for Maratha reservation were addressed. However, the Court emphasised that the demonstration had gone far beyond permissible limits.
On Monday, the Bench had already noted that the protest had paralysed Mumbai, brought traffic to a standstill, and breached the terms under which permission to hold the agitation had been granted. The Court had then afforded Jarange and his followers an opportunity to rectify the situation, directing them to clear the streets and restore order by Tuesday noon.
Key Highlights:-
Court’s Warning: The bench, led by Acting Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Aarti Sathe, emphasized that Jarange and his supporters are violators and have no right to occupy Azad Maidan without permission.
Disruptions Caused: The protest has caused significant disruptions, including traffic snarls and diversions, and even affected the functioning of the High Court.
Government’s Role: The court criticized the Maharashtra government for lapses in crowd control and enforcement of conditions, indicating a potential lapse on their part.
Next Steps: The court will review compliance with its directive at 3 PM today and may take further action if necessary.
A Division Bench of Acting Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Aarti Sathe Jarange made it clear that restoration of normalcy in the city could not be compromised. “They have violated the law and cannot continue to occupy Azad Maidan without permission. After 3 p.m., we will not permit anyone to remain there,” the Bench remarked.
The court’s decision reflects its commitment to maintaining law and order in Mumbai and ensuring that protests do not disrupt the city’s functioning. Jarange’s protest is demanding a 10% quota for the Maratha community under the OBC category, and the court has made it clear that such protests must adhere to legal frameworks and permissions
