A garment shop in Mumbai’s busy Fort area became the centre of controversy on August 31, when CCTV cameras captured a group of individuals allegedly shoplifting during the Maratha quota agitation.
The suspects, reportedly dressed in attire resembling that of protesters, were seen taking merchandise before leaving the store. The footage was handed over to Mumbai Police, who have since launched a formal investigation.
According to police, efforts are underway to identify the individuals. Officials stressed that it is still unclear whether the culprits were genuine demonstrators or outsiders attempting to exploit the protest for personal gain.
The incident comes as the Maratha quota stir entered its fourth day, led by activist Manoj Jarange Patil, who has been pressing for reservation for the Maratha community in education and government jobs.
Jarange, currently on an indefinite hunger strike at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan, has repeatedly appealed for peace. “This is a people’s movement. I urge all to remain calm and disciplined. Violence or misconduct only weakens our cause,” he told supporters on Sunday.
The agitation has led to traffic snarls and partial shutdowns across Mumbai. On Monday, the Mumbai Traffic Police reported heavy congestion around Azad Maidan, CSMT Junction, Fort, Marine Lines, and Crawford Market, advising commuters to take alternate routes.
In several districts of Marathwada and western Maharashtra, rallies and road blockades have disrupted normal life as protesters continue to demand a permanent and legally sustainable quota solution.
The Maharashtra government has been holding talks with Jarange and other Maratha leaders, but the issue remains unresolved. Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis has reiterated that while the government is committed to finding a solution, it must be within the constitutional framework.
Jarange, however, remains firm. He insists on Marathas being granted 10 percent reservation under the OBC category, citing links with the agrarian Kunbi community, and has vowed not to end his strike until demands are met.
Officials said that while they continue to facilitate peaceful demonstrations, any attempt at criminal exploitation of the agitation will be dealt with firmly.
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