The Maratha reservation agitation led by activist Manoj Jarange-Patil entered its fourth day on Monday, raising serious concerns over his declining health. Jarange, who is on an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan in South Mumbai, has now vowed to stop consuming water, intensifying the protest and alarming doctors and supporters alike.

Reports indicate that Jarange is unable to walk without assistance. Medical teams monitoring him advised increased water intake and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to stabilize his condition.

According to Marathi news portal, his blood sugar level has dropped to around 70, leaving him extremely weak. Despite warnings from health experts, Jarange announced on Sunday that he would renounce water from Monday.

The protest has caused major disruption across Mumbai’s key administrative and transit centres. Thousands of demonstrators camping in South Mumbai have blocked roads, railway hubs, and government precincts. The biggest impact was at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), where crowds gathered during peak hours, paralyzing traffic and complicating the morning rush. Police and railway officials implemented contingency plans to manage passenger movement.

Security at Mantralaya, the state administrative headquarters in Nariman Point, was heightened in anticipation of potential attempts to storm the building. A three-tier barricade was erected, and access was restricted to government officials and employees. Roads including Madame Cama Road and Free Press Journal Marg were sealed, while General Jagannath Bhosle Road was also closed, further adding to South Mumbai congestion.

To alleviate commuter difficulties, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking announced bus route diversions via Sant Sewalal Chowk, Rambhau Salaskar Marg, and M.G. Road. Despite these measures, heavy traffic snarls persisted, with long queues across multiple junctions.