By Hanika Kashyap
Pro-Maratha activist Manoj Jarange-Patil’s indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan in South Mumbai entered its fourth day on Monday (September 1, 2025). Further into the protest, Jarange announced that he will stop drinking water from today until the state government implements the Maratha reservation for a 10 per cent quota under the OBC category.
Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil has announced that he will meet to confer Jarange’s demands and work on a “solution that will stand in the court of law.” However, Jarange has reiterated that he will not stop until his request is fulfilled.
Jarange’s firm decision to forgo water led to his water levels dropping. Doctors from JJ Hospital conducted a medical examination, checking his blood pressure and sugar levels during the day. He has been advised to resume drinking water and ORS.
Since Monday morning, an estimated 35,000-45,000 supporters have gathered around Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and other areas, causing traffic congestion and inconvenience to commuters. The heavy turnout caused traffic snarls in areas such as South Mumbai, with Marine Drive, DN Road, and P D’Mello Road.
While train services are running, overcrowding is reported on platforms. Moreover, attempts by agitators to halt vehicles, including Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) buses, have also been noted.
Police diverted traffic heading towards the CSMT areas, whereas all BEST buses approaching CSMT were “diverted or temporarily suspended.” The JJ Bridge also remained closed for heavy vehicles from 9:30 am. Despite the police getting involved, the protestors were not backing down and were seen ignoring security instructions.
The protestors were heard chanting slogans such as “Ek Maratha Lakh Maratha” (One Maratha is equal to a million Marathas) and “Aarakshan Aamcha Hakka Che” (Reservation is our right). While the protests continue, police have also been stationed in and around Azad Maidan, with several barricades set up to manage the situation.