Activists from two Maratha organisations clashed on Saturday during an event organised by one of them in Aurangabad to “spread awareness” about Maratha reservations.
The event was organised at Sant Tukaram auditorium by Shiv Sangram, an organisation led by Nationalist Congress party leader Vinayak Mete. However, activists of another organisation, called Chhava, tried to disrupt the event. They hurled eggs at Mr Mete, who was at the dais after which his supporters started manhandling Chhava activists.
Mr Mete was addressing the meeting at Sant Tukaram auditorium. “Chhava leader Sunil Kotkar ran towards the stage and held the mike. He alleged that the NCP was using the issue of Maratha reservation only to ignite emotions for its political benefit and was not serious about giving reservations to the Maratha community. At the same time, other Chhava activists started shouting slogans and hurling eggs. Shiv Sangram supporters immediately pounced on them and then there was a free for all,” an eyewitness said.
According to reports, activists from both organisations as well as two photographers covering the event were injured.
The state government has formed a committee headed by industries
minister Narayan Rane to look into the issue of Maratha reservations.