In a major development following widespread protests against the proposed Shaktipeeth Mahamarg (Highway), the Kolhapur police have registered cases against 400 individuals, including several prominent political leaders and farmer activists. The charges stem from a massive protest held despite prohibitory orders in place.
Among those named in the FIR are Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana President Raju Shetty, former MLAs Rituraj Patil and Raju Baba Awale, and Shiv Sena leader Vijay Devane. The protest in question involved a Chakka Jam (road blockade) staged on the Pune-Bangalore National Highway, where demonstrators gathered in large numbers to voice their opposition to the Shaktipeeth Highway project.
According to police sources, the protesters went ahead with the blockade despite Section 144 being enforced in the area. As a result, legal action was initiated, and notices were served to key organizers in advance. The cases have been officially registered at the Shiroli MIDC police station in Kolhapur district.
The protest was part of a coordinated "Elgar" agitation staged by farmers from 12 districts across the state. The demonstrators allege that the proposed Shaktipeeth Mahamarg would adversely impact farmlands and rural livelihoods, and they are demanding a rollback or reconsideration of the project.
The growing opposition to the highway has seen strong reactions from various farmer unions and political leaders, sparking concerns over rising tensions in the affected regions.