Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange-Patil on Wednesday threw his weight behind the ongoing protest at Jantar Mantar, assuring demonstrators that the Maratha community would stand firmly with them if the agitation faced any further action. His visit added fresh political attention to the movement, with NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) MP Bajrang Sonawane accompanying him to the protest venue.
Interacting with protesters and movement leaders, Jarange expressed solidarity with the agitation and urged participants to continue their campaign peacefully while avoiding any confrontation.
Jarange Promises Support if Protesters Face Action
Addressing the gathering from the stage, Jarange assured protesters that they would not be left alone if the situation escalated.
“We are with you. If even a single blow is dealt to you in the coming days, we will stand by your side. The entire country and Maharashtra are with you,” he said while speaking to the protesters.
He further declared that if additional support became necessary, “Maratha brothers will come to Delhi,” adding that he had already assured protest organisers he would respond whenever they sought his help.
Appeals to Students to Continue Peaceful Protest
While extending support, Jarange also appealed to students and demonstrators to remain peaceful and avoid marching beyond the designated protest venue.
He said peaceful movements had achieved significant success in Maharashtra and urged protesters to stay at Jantar Mantar rather than attempting to move towards Parliament.
“Students should remain calm and should not head towards Parliament. We have already seen in Maharashtra how powerful peaceful protests can be. Justice can be achieved through non-violent means,” he said, adding that maintaining discipline would strengthen the movement.
‘Don’t Leave Jantar Mantar,’ Says Jarange
Jarange argued that Jantar Mantar remains the recognised venue for peaceful demonstrations and warned that vacating the protest site could weaken the agitation.
“If protesters vacate Jantar Mantar, the government may attempt to suppress the movement. No one can stop a peaceful protest,” he remarked while encouraging demonstrators to continue their campaign within constitutional limits.
Calls for Public Support
The Maratha leader said the agitation represented the concerns of students and economically weaker sections who were seeking justice. He maintained that when people fail to receive relief at the state level, they naturally approach the national capital to make their voices heard.
Referring to the reported police action during earlier demonstrations, Jarange said citizens should stand with peaceful protesters and hold elected representatives accountable for safeguarding democratic rights.
His visit drew large crowds at Jantar Mantar and added further momentum to the ongoing protest, which has continued to attract support from political leaders and social activists across the country.
Q1. Why did Manoj Jarange visit Jantar Mantar?
He visited the protest site to express solidarity with the ongoing agitation and assure protesters of support from the Maratha community.
Q2. Who accompanied Manoj Jarange during the visit?
NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) MP Bajrang Sonawane accompanied him to Jantar Mantar.
Q3. What did Jarange say about future support?
He said that if protesters faced further action, the Maratha community would stand with them and, if required, “Maratha brothers will come to Delhi.”
Q4. What advice did Jarange give to students?
He urged students to continue protesting peacefully and avoid marching towards Parliament.
Q5. Why is the protest being held at Jantar Mantar?
The protest is focused on demands related to alleged examination irregularities and broader calls for accountability and reforms.
