Vehicles stuck in a traffic jam during a protest by Maratha community members seeking reservation for the community under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, outside Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai.
Credit: PTI Photo
Mumbai: The ongoing Maharashtra reservation agitation has severely disrupted the movement of goods, transport, and people, particularly affecting South Mumbai and adjoining areas, according to All India Association of Industries (AIAI) and World Trade Centre-Mumbai (WTC).
“The agitation has resulted in a significant drop in office attendance, substantial business losses, and widespread disruption," said Dr Vijay Kalantri, President, AIAI and Chairman, MVIRDC World Trade Centre, Mumbai.
“At a time when we are focused on positioning Maharashtra as a US$ 1 trillion economy by 2027 and attracting domestic and foreign investments, such disruptions send the wrong signal and act as a setback to the image of a progressive Maharashtra,” Dr Kalantri emphasized.
Dr. Kalantri further stated that reservations should not be based on religion, caste, or community, but should instead be determined solely by economic criteria.
“Even after 78 years of Independence, we continue to rely on the reservation system. It is time for the government to ensure that all schemes and opportunities are inclusive and benefit every section of society equally, irrespective of caste or religion,” he added.
Dr Kalantri urged the Government to take urgent steps to restore normalcy and address the root causes of such unrest in a balanced and equitable manner, so that Maharashtra can continue on its path of inclusive economic growth and development.