Internet services have been suspended and a curfew has been enforced in three districts of Maharashtra amidst the Maratha quota agitation.

Maratha quota stir: Internet services were suspended in Jalna, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Beed districts, citing concerns over potential unrest fueled by social media rumours.

In response to escalating tensions related to the Maratha quota agitation spearheaded by activist Manoj Jarange, authorities in Maharashtra have taken decisive measures. These include the suspension of internet services and the imposition of curfew in specific districts. Internet services were halted in Jalna, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Beed districts as a precaution against potential unrest fueled by social media rumors.

A curfew was enforced in Ambad taluka of Jalna district starting Monday midnight to prevent any law and order disturbances amid ongoing protests. This decision was made to deter supporters from gathering at Antarwali Sarati village, where Jarange has been on a hunger strike.

To ensure security, the borders of affected districts have been sealed, and additional measures have been put in place. Despite the recent legislation in Maharashtra providing 10% reservation for Marathas in education and government jobs, Jarange continues to advocate for inclusion under the Other Backward Class (OBC) category and the conversion of the 'blood relatives' notification for Kunbi Marathas into law.

Jarange has demanded clarification from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde regarding the implementation of the 'blood relatives' notification and has accused Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis of obstructing his efforts. He has also pledged to protest outside Fadnavis's residence in Mumbai. Furthermore, Jarange has alleged threats to his life, including an alleged poisoning attempt via saline, although details are scarce.