The demonstrators belong to the Maratha community who have been demanding reservation in government jobs and education under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.

The police, in response to these protests, have increased security outside residences and offices of political leaders from the community in Pune.

Supporters of the Maratha quota have been organising various agitations across Maharashtra which has unfortunately become violent with protestors vandalising public property and properties of politicians and political parties.

The violence has led to large-scale violence and arson in a few regions like in Beed where an NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) leader's home and office were set on fire. Over 50 persons were held by the cops pertaining to the case. 

Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus services in the Marathwada region had to be suspended due to the widespread violence and their properties worth Rs 4 crore have already been damaged.

Meanwhile, in Nanded, the collector Abhijit Raut, has prohibited agitations on roads and highways in the district and internet services have been suspended in Jalna district.

Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange has been on an indefinite fast in support of the reservation demand since October 25 in Antarwali Sarati village, Jalna district. On Tuesday he announced that he will stop consuming water as well.