Stop more Maratha protestors from entering Mumbai: Bombay High Court directs State

In an urgent three-hour hearing on Monday (September 1, 2025), a Special Bench of Justices Ravindra V. Ghuge and Gautam A. Ankhad of the Bombay High Court directed the Maharashtra Government to clear protestors from Mumbai streets by Tuesday (September 2, 20250, 4 p.m. and prevent any more protestors from entering the city.

Taking cognisance of news reports and social media videos showing protestors climbing traffic signals, playing kabaddi and tug-of-war, bathing, urinating on streets, and damaging heritage property, the Court said the situation was “untenable” and needed immediate correction.

The Court said protestors must be restricted to Azad Maidan, the only venue where permission was granted for a one-day agitation. “There should be no protest anywhere else apart from Azad Maidan. The life of Mumbaikars should be normalised,” the Bench observed.

The State informed the court that permission had been given to only 5,000 protestors for one day, but many more had gathered at other locations, including CSMT, Flora Fountain, and the State Secretariat.

The Court questioned why “unauthorised protestors” had not been sent back and instructed the Government to stop further influx into Mumbai. The Bench also reminded the organisers to adhere to the August 26 order that restricted protest timings to 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The State submitted that activist Manoj Jarange-Patil had refused to accept the Government’s notice regarding violation of conditions. “There was no permission for a fast unto death. The organisers had the responsibility to follow the rules, but they have clearly flouted them. Mumbaikars should not be inconvenienced,” the court observed.

The Bench also directed the State to monitor Mr. Jarange’s health and ensure immediate medical assistance if required. Temporary permission was granted to transport food and water to Azad Maidan, where Mr. Jarange continues his fast.

Lawyers representing the protestors argued that basic amenities were inadequate at Azad Maidan, alleging power cuts and closure of public toilets for several hours. Next Hearing at 3 p.m. Tuesday

The matter will be heard again on Tuesday at 3 p.m. before a regular bench. The court has directed Mr. Jarange’s counsel, Shriram Pingle, to ensure compliance with the order and remove protestors loitering on Mumbai streets immediately.