Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Sep 16: The Bombay High Court is scheduled to hear on Thursday a petition filed by the Aami Foundation seeking directions to deny permission for the proposed Maratha reservation agitation at Azad Maidan in Mumbai, amid activist Manoj Jarange Patil's ongoing march towards the city.
The Aami Foundation, a non-governmental organisation that describes itself as being committed to public welfare and safety, has approached the court opposing the proposed agitation. The organisation had also approached the court in 2025 in connection with a Maratha reservation protest.
In its latest petition, the foundation has raised concerns over the possible impact of the proposed agitation on public roads and public spaces in Mumbai, particularly during the ongoing Ganesh festival.
The petition argues that while protesters have a right to hold peaceful demonstrations, they cannot occupy public roads and public spaces indefinitely in a manner that causes inconvenience to the general public.
The foundation has also referred to the Maharashtra government's 2025 rules governing public meetings, agitations and processions, arguing that the proposed protest should not be permitted if it would lead to disruption of public movement and civic life.
The hearing assumes significance as Mumbai Police have already denied permission for Jarange Patil's proposed indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan, citing concerns including crowd management, public safety, traffic disruption and the ongoing Ganesh festival.
Jarange Patil, who is demanding reservation for the Maratha community, began his march towards Mumbai on September 15 from Antarwali Sarati in Jalna district. His hunger strike entered its 18th day as he continued towards Mumbai.
Jarange had earlier announced plans to hold an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan after reaching Mumbai. Reports said he intended to begin the agitation around September 19-20.
Meanwhile, Jarange's health has reportedly deteriorated during the prolonged hunger strike, with reports on Wednesday saying that he was considering whether to continue the journey depending on his condition.
The Bombay High Court's hearing on the Aami Foundation's petition is expected to clarify the legal position concerning the proposed Azad Maidan agitation and the permissions required for the protest.