After Jantar Mantar clash, Jarange warns BJP: ‘Ministers won’t move freely in Maharashtra’

Jarange-Patil also referred to his own agitation for Maratha reservation and urged students not to withdraw from the protest.

“We had also protested at Antarwali Sarati. There too, police launched a fatal attack on the children of the poor, mothers, women and elderly people. They fired bullets at us. My only request to the students is — do not leave this place. The entire country is behind you. If you go elsewhere, they will crush the protest,” he said.

Jankar criticised the police action against the protesters and alleged that the administration had used excessive force.

“The police and administration have beaten these children so much that they have not even been able to eat for the last three days. Now the time has come to remove this government. The dictatorship currently prevailing in the country is extremely bad, and the Rashtriya Samaj Paksha strongly condemns this inhuman action,” he said.

Shetti also extended support to the students and criticised BJP leaders for their response to the agitation.

Also Read | Jantar Mantar Protest Highlights: ‘Why so selective?’ Union Minister Nadda questions Rahul Gandhi’s paper leak charges

“Instead of condemning the lathicharge on students, some BJP leaders, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, are criticising the agitators. One BJP leader even called the protesting students traitors. It is something that will make all those who believe in democracy hang their heads in shame,” he said.

Shetti urged protesters to remain cautious and maintain restraint.

“Attempts will be made to tarnish the image of the agitation by some forces. They will try to weaken the protest. Students should remain careful, watchful and observe restraint,” he said.