28 October,2016 07:56 AM IST | | Sanjeev Shivadekar
Maratha Kranti Morcha organisers seek police permission to hold a rally on Nov 6
File photo of a motorcycle rally to support Maratha Kranti Morcha in Karad
After holding silent rallies across rural Maharashtra, Maratha Kranti Morcha is now eyeing Mumbai. The outfit has planned a bike rally here on November 6 and has written to the police seeking permission for it.
Home department officials said the organisers have written to Deven Bharti, joint commissioner of police, law and order, (mid-day is in possession of the letter).
The silent trend
"Those supporting the demand will participate in the rally. It will proceed to the Gateway of India where a rally participant will garland the statue of Shivaji Maharaj. Like every other morcha and rally so far, there will be no speeches," said an organiser.
Demand for reservation
Claiming that this is a warm-up rally with plans afoot for a massive morcha in Mumbai, the organiser added, "On December 14, the morcha is in Nagpur (Winter Session of the state Assembly). If our demands are not met, we will proceed with our grand rally and morcha in Mumbai."
The Maratha community claims it comprises 32 per cent of the total state population. In keeping with that, the protestors are demanding a re-look at the Atrocity Act along with reservation for the community in education and jobs.
Cop response
Despite repeated attempts, there was no response from Bharti. However, a senior Home department official said the state is in no mood to upset the community by refusing permission.
Meanwhile, to ensure participants observe traffic rules, the organisers are using social media and pamphlets to communicate with their base.
