Prohibitory Orders Imposed in Jalna Amid Dhangar Community's ST Status Agitation

Maharashtra's Jalna district administration imposed prohibitory orders from January 17 to 18 amid the Dhangar community's agitation seeking Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The restrictions ban gatherings over five people, carrying arms, and mandate closures of shops and schools in Jalna and Ambad tehsils. The move follows concerns over protests led by Dhangar leader Deepak Borhade, whose planned Mumbai demonstration was denied permission. The Dhangar community, about 9% of the state's population, currently holds 3.5% reservation under Nomadic Tribes but seeks ST recognition, citing constitutional links to the 'Dhangads' group.