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'Don't trouble Mumbaikars': Manoj Jarange to Maratha protesters after Bombay HC order
While addressing a gathering at Azad Maidan, Jarange said he would leave Mumbai only after Marathas get the reservation under the OBC category.
After the Bombay High Court came down heavily on the Maratha quota agitation, activist Manoj Jarange has asked protesters to follow the court directives.
"Follow the high court's orders. Don't trouble Mumbaikars. Don't roam on streets, park vehicles in designated areas. Those who don't want to listen to me can return to their villages," Jarange said while addressing his supporters at Azad Maidan.
While addressing a gathering in a frail voice, the Maratha quota activist said he would leave Mumbai only after Marathas get the reservation under the OBC category.
The Bombay High Court, while hearing the matter, noted Mumbai has been brought to a standstill due to the agitation and the situation is grim as Jarange hardened his stand by giving up water on day four of the stir.
Also Read: All Mumbai streets to be vacated by Sept 2: Bombay HC's big order on Maratha quota protests
"Our people don’t misbehave with journalists and indulge in hooliganism,” Jarange said.
"I don't want the aspersions to be cast on my caste. I am going through a lot of pain and suffering for you and your children. If you behave in such a manner, then what's the use (of the agitation)?" he added.
Earlier in the day, the high court was shown visuals of the disruption in the city as the agitators took to the roads and crowded key local stations in the city, paralyising the traffic movement.
The HC said that the protest has not been peaceful in the city and gave an opportunity to Jarange and his supporters to ensure all streets are vacated by Tuesday noon.
Jarange has been staging a hunger strike at Azad Maidan in central Mumbai since August 29, demanding a 10 per cent reservation to the Maratha community in government jobs and education in the OBC category. The activist has stopped drinking water from Monday, his supporters claimed.
The protesters have gathered at key places in the Maharashtra capital, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Churchgate railway stations, Marine Drive promenade, and even the high court building, the court said.
