Pune’s Market Yard To Remain Closed Tomorrow As Maratha Community Calls For Bandh
Market Yard, 31st October 2023: Pune’s Shree Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Market Yard, locally known as ‘Market Yard,’ is set to remain closed tomorrow in support of the ongoing Maratha reservation protests in the state of Maharashtra. The Maratha Kranti Morcha’s agitation is gaining momentum across Maharashtra, with protests in various locations. Now, in solidarity with the cause, Market Yard will be closed for the day.
Multiple traders and commission agents based at Pune’s Market Yard, situated in the Gultekdi area, have decided to suspend their trading activities on November 1, Wednesday, to demonstrate their support for the Maratha reservation movement. In addition, the Market Yard Workers’ Union has thrown its weight behind this decision and is calling for a day-long bandh on the same day.
These actions come in the wake of widespread protests and disruptions triggered by the Maratha community’s demand for reservation. Notable incidents include the Maratha community’s protest against Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s inauguration of a sugar factory in Daund, the closure of Navle Bridge and a ban on political leaders’ entry into certain cities. Additionally, MP and MLA visits have been cancelled in response to warnings from the Maratha community.
The demand for the Maratha reservation has been a long-standing issue, with the government’s initial pledge of a 30-day resolution period now surpassed by 47 days without concrete action. To highlight their cause, activist Manoj Jarange-Patil has been on a fast unto death at Antarvali Sarati (Jalna) for the past seven days, underscoring the urgency and determination of the Maratha community in their call for reservation.
