The entire state of Maharashtra was rocked by the horrifying incident of sexual assault on two schoolgirls in Badlapur, sparking widespread outrage and protests. In response to the public outcry, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) called for a statewide Maharashtra Bandh. However, the Bombay High Court swiftly declared the bandh illegal, ordering legal action against those involved. Following the court’s ruling, the opposition withdrew the bandh but announced a series of peaceful protests across the state on Saturday.
This united front marks the first time that MVA leaders have come together for a joint protest, drawing significant attention from both the public and the media.
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sharad Pawar, along with MP Supriya Sule, is leading a silent protest in Pune, while the Congress party, led by State President Nana Patole, will participate in demonstrations across the state, donning black flags and armbands in a show of solidarity.
In Mumbai, the Thackeray faction is set to stage a protest at the Shiv Sena Bhavan, with Uddhav Thackeray himself participating. Wearing a black ribbon as a symbol of dissent against the government’s handling of the incident, Thackeray’s presence underscores the gravity of the situation. A black stage has been erected, and large banners have been displayed outside the Bhavan to express their collective outrage.