Protests at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan on March 3, 2025 against the death of Somanth Suryawanshi, who died in police custody in December 2024.
Photo: Screenshot from video shared on X/@VijayWadettiwar
Hundreds of protesters gathered at Azad Maidan in Mumbai on Monday (March 3, 2025), demanding justice for Somnath Suryawanshi, who died in police custody in Parbhani last December. The protest, led by Ambedkarite organisations, began early and has intensified with demonstrators accusing the government of ignoring their demands.
The protest coincides with the start of the Maharashtra State Legislature’s budget session in Mumbai, drawing legislators and representatives from across the State. While lawmakers remained occupied with the session, the aggressive stance of the protesters at Azad Maidan has captured widespread attention.
Despite the scorching heat, demonstrators remained steadfast, expressing frustration over the government’s failure to address their concerns.
Also Read | Parbhani violence: Ambedkarite activists march to Mumbai, demand justice for Somnath
Protesters blocked
The situation escalated when protesters attempted to march towards the State Secretariat. However, police barricaded the gates of Azad Maidan, leading to heated confrontations. Some protesters tried to climb over the gates, while others engaged in loud sloganeering. Police reinforcements were deployed to manage the crowd, but tensions remained high.
Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar reached the protest site to express solidarity with the demonstrators. Addressing the crowd, Mr. Wadettiwar criticised the government for its inaction and accused it of using the police to suppress the protest.
“This government is scared. It cannot face the people, so it hides behind the police. We will teach this government a lesson. We will raise this issue in the assembly and demand accountability. The police officers responsible for Suryawanshi’s death must be charged with murder and given the death penalty. The government will have to answer for this custodial killing,” he stated.
The protesters have vowed to continue their agitation until the government takes concrete steps to address their demands. They are calling for a thorough investigation into Suryawanshi’s death, action against the responsible police officers, and broader reforms to prevent custodial deaths.
Published – March 04, 2025 04:19 am IST
