In a shocking turn of events, Maharashtra Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal, affiliated with the Ajit Pawar faction, jumped from the third floor of the Mantralaya building, landing safely on a net below. This dramatic incident occurred on October 4, 2024, amidst escalating protests led by tribal legislators against the inclusion of the Dhangar community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) reservation quota.
#Maharastra #Politics #Mumbai #Mantralaya
— Mayuresh Ganapatye (@mayuganapatye) October 4, 2024
Adivasi MLAs protesting on protective net in Manatralaya.
They are protesting against Dhangar community getting reservation in ST category. pic.twitter.com/KzpkAMLLdc
The protests saw several tribal MLAs congregate on the second-floor security grate, vociferously opposing the proposal to extend ST benefits to the Dhangar community. The demonstrators demanded that the community be excluded from the scheduled tribal reservation and advocated for services under the Panchayat Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA) Act.
As tensions mounted, police intervened to disperse the protesting lawmakers, who were seen chanting slogans in unison against the proposed changes to the reservation policy. Discussions surrounding the contentious issue of Scheduled Tribes reservation, particularly regarding the Dhangar community’s inclusion, have intensified, leading to heightened unrest among various factions within the state government.
The situation remains fluid as political leaders and stakeholders continue to engage in dialogue to address the grievances of the protesting lawmakers. The incident has drawn significant attention, highlighting the ongoing complexities surrounding reservation policies in Maharashtra.
