Maratha reservation protest: Internet suspended, two attempt suicide in Aurangabad

Authorities on Tuesday rushed more forces and shut down internet services as Maratha protesters demanding reservation in Maharashtra's Aurangabad district and parts of Marathwada set vehicles, including those of the police and fire departments, on fire and pelted stones even as two men tried to commit suicide. Seven battalions of the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) have been deployed in certain sensitive areas besides the local police, officials said. Authorities suspended internet service to stop users from spreading rumours on social media in Aurangabad, where tension prevailed in May due to communal riots in which the police faced wrath for not handling the situation well. The protests follow a call for a shutdown in Maharashtra by Maratha Sakal Samaj, an umbrella organisation for various Maratha outfits, after 27-year-old Kakasaheb Shinde jumped into the Godavari river and drowned on Monday during the agitation by the community for reservation in government jobs and education. The two youngsters, who attempted suicide on Tuesday, have been admitted to Ghati Hospital.