Maratha agitators threaten to gherao parts of Mantralaya during winter session

Maratha protestors have threatened to gherao the state legislature building and the administrative headquarters of Mantralaya during the winter session in November in case the community's demand for quotas are not met. BJP MP Dr Heena Gavit's vehicle was attacked by agitators in Dhule on Sunday.

Maratha protestors across political lines from the eastern suburbs met at Vikhroli on Sunday to plan the future course of action. "The issue has been simmering for years. There is no point in holding small protests as only a decisive agitation can yield results. We are seeking that lakhs of Marathas must converge around Mantralaya and Vidhan Bhawan during the winter session and gherao it till the time our demands for quotas in jobs and education are granted. A request in this regard will be made to the state co-ordinators of the Maratha Kranti Morcha," said a Shiv Sena leader who addressed the meeting.

Meanwhile, Gavit's car was attacked as she was leaving the Dhule district collectorate after a meeting. The protestors, who were on a dharna at the site, also climbed on the car and smashed the wind-screen. Gavit is the daughter of former NCP minister and tribal leader Dr Vijaykumar Gavit and a first-term MP from Nandurbar in North Maharashtra.

M.Ramkumar, superintendent of police, Dhule, said eight people had been detained in connection with the incident and a FIR was being lodged.

PLAN OF ACTION

• Maratha protestors threatened to gherao the Assembly during the winter session in November in case the community’s demand for reservations are not met by then