Tensions Escalate as Tribal Leaders Stage High-Profile Protest at Maharashtra Secretariat

On Friday, tribal leaders, including Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal, demonstrated against the inclusion of the Dhangar community in the Scheduled Tribe list by jumping onto a safety net from the third floor of Maharashtra's state secretariat. The protest underscored escalating tensions over tribal issues in the state.

In a dramatic protest at Maharashtra's state secretariat, tribal leaders, led by Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal, took a bold stand against the inclusion of the Dhangar community in the Scheduled Tribe list on Friday. They drew attention by jumping onto a safety net from the third floor of the Mantralaya complex.

No injuries were reported, but the move highlighted escalating tensions among tribal leaders and the government's handling of tribal issues. The protest included participation from NCP legislator Kiran Lahamate and BJP tribal MP Hemant Savara, emphasizing the gravity of the ongoing reservation quota debate.

After being removed from the net, the leaders held a sit-in, demanding Chief Minister Eknath Shinde address their concerns. This action underscores the pressure on the government to act amid growing caste-related agitations throughout the state.