Mumbai: State leaders decided, in an all-party meeting that was called on Saturday to discuss the burning Maratha reservation issue, that a special Assembly session would be held for lawmakers to confer about the matter. The session will take place after the Maharashtra State Backward Class Commission submits its report on the economic and social backwardness prevailing among the community. It was also decided that the state government would revoke FIRs against Maratha protesters in the past few days.
In an attempt to restore normalcy in the state in the wake of violent protests by the Maratha community, the state government had called a meeting of group leaders in both Houses of state legislature. After the meeting, politicos came up with a three-point joint statement.
“We appeal for peace in the state, and no one should indulge in violence as well as any activity such as suicide. Also, there is wide agreement among all political parties about clearing the demand of Maratha reservation. As soon as the report of the Backward Commission comes to the state government, there will be a legislative session,” the statement read.
After the meeting, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said that he had instructed the state’s director general of police about revoking cases against Maratha protesters. “Those who have beaten up police officers or have been seen committing serious offences like burning cars or destroying property won’t be spared. Peaceful protesters will not have to face any case,” said Mr Fadnavis.
