Bombay HC slams Jarange, orders clearing of Mumbai roads
The HC urged for normalcy to be restored in Mumbai, and gave an opportunity to Jarange and his supporters to rectify the situation and ensure all streets are vacated by Tuesday noon
Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Monday strongly criticized Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange for causing widespread disruption across Mumbai. The court remarked that the Jarange-led protest was effectively holding the city for ransom and issued a deadline of 4 PM on Tuesday for the clearance of city roads.
A bench comprising Justices Ravindra Ghuge and Gautam Ankhad observed that the ongoing protest, led by Jarange, was not peaceful and lacked valid permission. The court directed the Maharashtra government to initiate appropriate legal steps and ensure no additional protesters, as claimed by Jarange, are allowed to enter the city.
Jarange has been on a hunger strike at Azad Maidan since August 29, demanding reservation for the Maratha community in government jobs and educational institutions under the OBC category. Thousands of Jarange’s supporters have gathered in Mumbai, occupying roads and railway stations, causing significant disruption to daily commuters. There have also been disturbing reports of some protesters allegedly harassing and threatening citizens, defecating in public areas, and even molesting female journalists.
Taking note of news reports and social media footage showing protesters climbing traffic signals, playing games like kabaddi and tug-of-war, bathing and urinating in public, and damaging heritage properties, the court called the situation “untenable” and in urgent need of correction.
The bench emphasised that protests must be confined strictly to Azad Maidan, the only venue where permission was granted for a one-day agitation. “There should be no protest anywhere else. The life of Mumbaikars must be normalised,” the court said.
The judges also noted that conditions set for a peaceful protest had been violated, and Jarange’s assurances to the police were not honored. Protesters reportedly obstructed access to the High Court building, blocked judges' vehicles, and severely hampered the city’s normal functioning.
Following the court’s directive, the Maharashtra government adopted a tougher stance. Authorities warned that legal action would be taken against those protesting outside the designated area at Azad Maidan.
Reacting to the court’s observations, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, “The court noted that certain conditions were violated, particularly concerning road blockages. The administration will ensure strict compliance with the court’s directives.”
Jarange also appealed to his supporters to follow the court’s orders. “Don’t roam the streets of Mumbai; park vehicles in designated areas,” he said
