Aurangbad : District wide call for for Complete Bandh on Monday

In a unanimous decision taken during a meeting of the Maratha Kranti Morcha on Saturday, a district-wide bandh has been called in Aurangabad district on Monday. The bandh is being organized in response to what the Maratha community alleges was an inhuman attack by the police on Maratha community protesters that occurred on Friday.

Smart City Bus Services Halted Amidst Protests

Ongoing citywide protests against the recent lathi-charge on Maratha protesters in Jalna have prompted the suspension of Smart City bus services since Saturday, following police orders. With no buses operating on Sunday, there's a strong possibility of continued closures on Monday. The administration awaits further instructions from the police. As a result, citizens are facing increased transportation costs, resorting to rickshaws for their commutes during this disruption.

Companies and essential services excluded from bandh

Sakal Maratha Samaj excludes companies and essential services from Monday's bandh in Aurangabad. Factories, hospitals, medical stores, and medical services are exempted. Workers in the first shift will be given leave at 7 pm, and bus routes will be diverted for safety. Tight security with 100 police personnel, 50 SRPF personnel, and two police inspectors from MIDC police station will be in place.

Solidarity Appeal to Businesses

Vinod Patil, a prominent member of the Maratha Kranti Morcha, has made an earnest appeal to Vyapari Mahasangh (Traders' Association) and various social organizations to stand in solidarity with the community by temporarily closing their shops on the day of the bandh. The closure of businesses is expected to amplify the impact of the protest.

Government Inaction Criticized

During a meeting convened at the API Corner hotel by the Sakal Maratha Samaj, Patil expressed deep dissatisfaction with the government's lack of action in addressing the concerns of the Maratha community. He pointed out that it has been two years since the cancellation of Maratha reservations, and yet, neither the previous nor the current governments have taken substantial steps to redress the community's grievances.

Demands of the Samaj

 The Sakal Maratha Samaj has presented a comprehensive list of demands, which include:

1. Suspension of Police Superintendent: The immediate suspension of the police superintendent responsible for ordering the lathi charge against the protesters.

2. Resignation Calls:  Holding Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis accountable for the incident, demanding their resignation.

3. Cancellation of Charges: A call to revoke any charges filed against the protesters who participated in the demonstrations.

4. Molestation Allegations: Urging the registration of molestation charges against police officers who allegedly assaulted women protesters with sticks.

5. Change in March Format: The community has resolved to replace silent marches with vocal marches in future demonstrations.