Amid allegations that Maratha rallies held across the state are targeting the BJP-led state government, the rallies have started witnessing the increased presence of BJP leaders and workers.
Amid allegations that Maratha rallies held across the state are targeting the BJP-led state government, the rallies have started witnessing the increased presence of BJP leaders and workers. For the first time since rallies began nearly a month ago, prominent leaders like state BJP chief Raosaheb Danve and minister for water supply Babanrao Lonikar participated in the morcha at Jalna.
In the wake of the Kopardi rape-murder case, in which a 15-year-old girl was brutally raped and murdered at Kopardi village in Ahmednagar district on July 13, huge rallies are being organised in several cities by the Maratha community to protest the incident. The community is also demanding abolition of the Atrocity Act during the rallies.
Commenting on this, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis had alleged that there are some people who are trying to destabilise his chair. However, notwithstanding this, the party has now asked its workers to participate in the rallies in large numbers.
“We have asked all our MLAs, MPs and activists to take part in the Maratha community rallies,” said Mr Danve. “The rallies are not against government or any party. There is no leader, symbol or flag involved in these rallies. The Marathas have come out on streets to seek justice for their demands. They have been discontent for several years. It is our duty to stand by them.”
Some of the demands of like abolition of the Atrocity Act can be solved through discussion. But its misuse should be avoided at any cost. As far as reservation is concerned, we are committed to provide it, said Mr Danve.
However, party insiders said the decision to participate in the morchas is a move to assuage the community’s anger against the government. It is also aimed at giving assurance to the Maratha community that party is aware of its grievances.
