Jarange Firm On Mumbai March Despite Health Concerns

Mumbai: Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil remained firm on his decision to march towards Mumbai on Thursday, even as his health deteriorated on the 19th day of his hunger strike and doctors advised him against undertaking the journey.

Jarange, who is currently in Patoda in Beed district of the Marathwada region, was administered saline after complaining of weakness. Addressing his supporters, he said he would leave for Mumbai after 1 pm on Thursday and challenged the authorities to stop him. “If I am not allowed to enter Azad Maidan, I will call members of the Maratha community,” he said.

The Mumbai police have so far not granted permission for Jarange to hold a protest at Azad Maidan. The activist is planning to approach the Bombay High Court seeking permission to hold the protest in Mumbai.

Jarange also alleged that a conspiracy was being hatched to kill him, without providing details to substantiate the claim.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis appealed to Jarange to seek medical treatment and prioritise his health.

Responding to questions about Jarange’s deteriorating health in Pune, Fadnavis urged him to get admitted to a hospital, undergo treatment and take care of his health. He said the State government was always ready to hold talks with the activist.

Fadnavis said 12 of Jarange’s 13 demands had been accepted, while the remaining demand involved a legal hurdle that had already been explained to him.

The Chief Minister also appealed to Jarange not to create a tense situation during the Ganeshotsav celebrations in Mumbai and Pune. He said the agitation could continue later, but Jarange should prioritise his health for the time being.

Reacting to Fadnavis’s remarks, Jarange said that although the State government had accepted the demands, there was nothing on the ground.