1. Who is Maharashtra Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal?
Narhari Zirwal is the Deputy Speaker of the Maharashtra Assembly and a member of the Ajit Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).
2. Why Did Narhari Zirwal Jump Off the Third Floor of Mantralaya?
Zirwal jumped off the third floor of Mantralaya to protest the inclusion of the Dhangar community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category. He and two other legislators, including a BJP MP, landed safely on a net installed to prevent suicide attempts.
3. What Was the Reason Behind the Protest?
The protest was against the government's consideration of including the Dhangar community, currently classified as Other Backward Classes (OBC), in the ST category. The Dhangars claim that they are identical to the Dhangads, which have ST status.
4. Who Joined Narhari Zirwal in the Protest?
Zirwal was joined by Kiran Lahamate of the NCP, Rajesh Patil of the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA), Hiraman Khoskar of Congress, and Hemant Savra of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
5. What Was the Reaction of the Government?
The ruling Mahayuti government has been delaying a decision on this issue, leading to ongoing protests and demonstrations by the Dhangar community and their supporters.
6. How Did the Protesters Ensure Their Safety?
The safety net installed in 2018 prevented any injuries during the protest. The protesters landed safely on the net and then climbed back into the building.
7. What Is the Current Status of the Dhangar Community?
The Dhangar community is currently classified as OBC and has been demanding inclusion in the ST category. They argue that their community is identical to the Dhangads, which have ST status.
8. How Did the Protest Affect the Cabinet Meeting?
The protest occurred during a cabinet meeting attended by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Ministers Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis. The meeting was disrupted by the demonstrations.
9. What Is the Significance of This Incident?
This incident highlights the ongoing struggle for recognition and rights by the Dhangar community. It also underscores the political tensions within the ruling coalition over this issue.
10. How Did the Public React to the Incident?
The incident has sparked widespread attention and debate on social media, with many expressing support for the Dhangar community's demands and others criticizing the drastic measures taken by the protesters.
11. What's Next for the Dhangar Community?
The Dhangar community continues to agitate for their inclusion in the ST category. The government's response to this demand remains uncertain, and the situation is likely to remain volatile until a decision is made.
