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Politics
Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis urges peaceful Ganeshotsav amid Maratha quota protests
✍️ Mid-Day
🗓 16 Sep 2026, 09:46 AM
👁 10
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the ongoing Maratha quota agitation must not disturb Ganeshotsav celebrations, urging calm and order.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the media on Thursday, emphasizing that the Maratha community's demand for reservation should not interfere with the state's major Hindu festival, Ganeshotsav. He urged protestors to keep the celebrations peaceful and to avoid any disruptions that could affect public order.
The statement comes as large gatherings of Maratha quota supporters have been organized across the state, demanding the implementation of a 16% reservation for the community. While the protests have largely been peaceful, authorities remain vigilant due to the high concentration of crowds during the festive period.
Fadnavis assured that the state government is monitoring the situation closely and will take necessary action to safeguard the safety of devotees and the smooth conduct of Ganeshotsav events in temples and public spaces.
He also called on political parties and civil society groups to cooperate in maintaining law and order, stressing that the cultural significance of Ganeshotsav should be respected by all sections of society.
The deputy chief minister's remarks aim to balance the community's reservation demands with the need to preserve the festive atmosphere that draws millions of worshippers each year.
The statement comes as large gatherings of Maratha quota supporters have been organized across the state, demanding the implementation of a 16% reservation for the community. While the protests have largely been peaceful, authorities remain vigilant due to the high concentration of crowds during the festive period.
Fadnavis assured that the state government is monitoring the situation closely and will take necessary action to safeguard the safety of devotees and the smooth conduct of Ganeshotsav events in temples and public spaces.
He also called on political parties and civil society groups to cooperate in maintaining law and order, stressing that the cultural significance of Ganeshotsav should be respected by all sections of society.
The deputy chief minister's remarks aim to balance the community's reservation demands with the need to preserve the festive atmosphere that draws millions of worshippers each year.