Region on boil after protester’s suicide

An agitation launched by Maratha community outfits for reservation in government jobs and education in the state, took a serious turn on Monday following the alleged suicide of a protester in Aurangabad.

Kakasaheb Shinde, 28, reportedly jumped into the Godavari river while staging a protest for the stir’s demands. Following the incident, Maratha outfits have threatened to intensify their agitation. Earlier in the day, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said there were vested political interest provoking the outfits.

Shinde’s death triggered tension in Aurangabad and other parts of Marathwada (central Maharashtra). Community leaders and relatives of Patil refused to accept his body and demanded that a criminal case be registered against CM Fadnavis and police officers for negligence. They also demanded that Patil be given the status of a martyr. Several road blocks were put up in Ichalkaranji, Sindhudurg, Nashik.

“There is resentment among the community over the unfulfilled demands and the first death which has taken place today. We have been getting calls from across the state expressing their anger and wish to continue the protest. From tomorrow (Tuesday) the women have resolved to join us...” said Abasaheb Patil, who has been leading the sit-in protest in Parli for last six days.

The community has also announced a shutdown in Maharashtra on Tuesday, Patil added.

State Congress chief Ashok Chavan alleged the government was trying to depict Maratha youngsters as criminals. “The government’s callous approach is responsible for the death of Maratha youth. The local administration failed to take note of the warning by the protesters,” said NCP chief Jayant Patil.