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This is an archive article published on December 4, 2016

Muslims mobilise in Marathwada for reservation

Rallies held in major cities of the region have attracted lakhs of supporters.

Marathwada, Muslims mobilise, Marathwada muslims, reservation, marathwada reservation demand, marathwada protests, india news, indian express news The Muslim community carried out a silent march in Sillod, Aurangabad, on Friday.

In the backdrop of the ongoing Maratha unrest in Maharashtra for reservation in jobs and education, there has been a massive mobilisation of the Muslim community in Marathwada for the same cause. Lakhs of Muslims were seen carrying out silent marches on Friday in Sillod, Aurangabad. Other major cities of Marathwada, including Nanded and Latur, have also seen similar marches recently. Their next rally is slated to be held in Beed.

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The protests, led by Muslim Aarakshan Sangharsh Kruti Samiti — an umbrella organisation of all Muslim political, social and religious organisations — have demanded 10 per cent reservation for Muslims and the protection of Muslim Personal Law, among other privileges.

Marathwada has the second highest concentration of Muslims in Maharashtra after Mumbai. Muslims, who make up 11.5 per cent of Maharashtra’s population, constitute over 15 per cent of Marathwada’s population. One of every third person in the eight major cities and towns of Marathwada is a Muslim.

“These are peaceful silent marches to pressurise the government for our demands. These are not political rallies but a movement that has grown from the community,” a convenor of the Muslim Aarakshan Sangharsh Kruti Samiti said.

Zeeshan Shaikh is the Associate Editor who heads The Indian Express' Mumbai reporting team. He is recognized for his highly specialized Expertise in analyzing the complex dynamics of Maharashtra politics and critical minority issues, providing in-depth, nuanced, and Trustworthy reports. Expertise  Senior Editorial Role: As an Associate Editor leading the Mumbai reporting team, Zeeshan Shaikh holds a position of significant Authority and journalistic responsibility at a leading national newspaper. Core Specialization: His reporting focuses intensely on two interconnected, high-impact areas: Maharashtra Politics & Urban Power Structures: Provides deep-dive analyses into political strategies, municipal elections (e.g., BMC polls), the history of alliances (e.g., Shiv Sena's shifting partners), and the changing demographics that influence civic power in Mumbai. Minority Issues and Socio-Political Trends: Excels in coverage of the Muslim community's representation in power, demographic shifts, socio-economic challenges, and the historical context of sensitive political and cultural issues (e.g., the 'Vande Mataram' debate's roots in the BMC). Investigative Depth: His articles frequently delve into the historical roots and contemporary consequences of major events, ranging from the rise of extremist groups in specific villages (e.g., Borivali-Padgha) to the long-term collapse of established political parties (e.g., Congress in Mumbai). Trustworthiness & Credibility Data-Driven Analysis: Zeeshan's work often incorporates empirical data, such as National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) statistics on arrests and convictions of minorities, or data on asset growth of politicians, grounding his reports in factual evidence. Focus on Hinterland Issues: While based in Mumbai, he maintains a wide lens, covering issues affecting the state's hinterlands, including water crises, infrastructure delays, and the plight of marginalized communities (e.g., manual scavengers). Institutional Affiliation: His senior position at The Indian Express—a publication known for its tradition of rigorous political and investigative journalism—underscores the high level of editorial vetting and Trustworthiness of his reports. He tweets @zeeshansahafi ... Read More

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