In response to the recent police action against Maratha community members demanding reservation in Jalna district, citizens in Khed taluka called for a Bandh (shutdown) to protest against the incident. The Bandh garnered significant support in many villages, where businesses remained closed in solidarity with the protest.
However, the demonstration took a disruptive turn as protestors set tires on fire along the Alandi-Markal road earlier today, causing traffic disruptions. Local law enforcement authorities later intervened and restored vehicular movement on the road. The Bandh also received support from neighboring areas, including villages in the Maval taluka, where shopkeepers decided to keep their shops closed.
The unrest stemmed from a recent incident where police lathicharged Maratha community members in Jalna district who were peacefully demonstrating for reservation rights. Videos of the police lathicharge, including scenes of violence against women protestors, went viral on social media platforms, triggering outrage and protests in multiple districts.
As the demonstrations spread to other parts of the state, protestors resorted to setting Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) vehicles and other government vehicles on fire in protest against the police department’s actions. In response, the state government took action by placing the Superintendent of Police in Jalna on forced leave and transferring two other officers, including the Additional Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent.
The Bandh in Khed taluka and the wider support for the protestors across the Pune region highlight the significance of the issue and the community’s determination to seek justice and equal opportunities through peaceful protests and collective action.
