The Bombay High Court on Tuesday ordered activist Manoj Jarange and his supporters, staging a protest at Azad Maidan demanding Maratha reservation, to vacate the premises by 3 pm or face strict action.
A bench led by Acting Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Aarti Sathe Jarange warned of contempt proceedings and heavy penalties if the agitators failed to comply. “We want complete normalcy restored by 3 pm, or else we will step in,” the court said, stressing that occupying Azad Maidan without permission was unlawful.
The court also expressed displeasure with the state government, noting lapses in maintaining order. “This is a very serious situation. We are not satisfied with the state government either,” the bench remarked.
Senior advocate Satish Maneshinde, appearing for Jarange, apologised for the misconduct of some supporters and maintained that the activist has always urged peaceful protest. However, the bench reminded that protesters had obstructed the high court on Monday, forcing judges to walk to court.
The matter was posted for further hearing at 3 pm, coinciding with the court’s deadline. Police have already served a notice to Jarange and his supporters, asking them to vacate Azad Maidan immediately.
Jarange has been on an indefinite hunger strike at the site since August 29, vowing not to leave Mumbai until his demand for Maratha reservation is fulfilled. On Monday, the court had already criticised the protest, saying it had paralysed Mumbai and violated all conditions imposed by authorities. It had directed Jarange’s group to vacate and clear the occupied streets by Tuesday noon, while also instructing the government and police to act lawfully against the violations.
