09 September,2026 04:20 PM IST | Jalna (Maharashtra) | mid-day online correspondent
Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Antarwali Sarati for the past 12 days. File Pic
The administration in Maharashtra's Jalna district has imposed a two-day ban on liquor sales in parts of the district amid expectations of a large gathering at activist Manoj Jarange's protest site, reported the PTI.
The restriction has been imposed as Jarange continues his indefinite hunger strike at Antarwali Sarati village, where supporters have been gathering over his demands, including reservation for the Maratha community and caste validity certificates.
Jalna District Collector Ashima Mittal has ordered a ban on the sale of alcohol within the jurisdiction of Gondi police station on September 9 and 10, officials said, the news agency reported.
The administration said it expects a significant gathering of protesters and supporters in the area.
Officials said the continued operation of wholesale liquor outlets could potentially lead to untoward incidents and affect public order amid the gathering.
Jarange has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Antarwali Sarati for the past 12 days, according to officials.
With no settlement reached so far, he has called a meeting of members of the Maratha community at the village on September 12.
The protest site has already been attracting hundreds of supporters.
Antarwali Sarati is located around 400 kilometres from Mumbai.
According to the PTI, the district administration has also introduced wider preventive restrictions in the area.
Officials said restrictions have been imposed on carrying weapons and assembling in groups of five or more. These restrictions will remain in force until midnight on September 20.
The measures are aimed at maintaining public order during a period when several events and gatherings are expected in the district.
The preventive measures come ahead of several major festivals and public events.
The Pola festival will be observed on September 10, followed by Ganeshotsav 2026 from September 14 to 25.
Marathwada Liberation Day will also be observed on September 17.
The administration expects processions, celebrations and other public programmes during this period, which could result in large gatherings, as per the PTI.
The Jalna administration has cited public safety and the prevention of untoward incidents as the main reasons for the restrictions.
With the Maratha community meeting planned at Antarwali Sarati and several festivals scheduled during the same period, authorities are taking preventive measures to manage crowds and maintain public order.
(with PTI inputs)
