Days after two long marches were held in different parts of Maharashtra to highlight the issues in the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, a third long march commenced from Rajur in Akole taluka of Ahilyanagar on Tuesday (February 24, 2026).
Over 5000 protestors participated in it. “We have been issued a notice by the police that action will be taken against us in case of any law and order situation. Instead of taking note of our legitimate demands, the government wants to muzzle our voices. We condemn this,” Ajit Navale, All India Kisan Sabha leader, said on Tuesday (February 24, 2026). The protest has been organised by the All India Kisan Sabha and Centre of Indian Trade Union (CITU).
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Meanwhile, the State government has called for a meeting at the Secretariat on Wednesday to discuss the issues raised by the protestors.
Previous long marches were held in Nashik and in Palghar a few weeks ago. They were primarily helmed by tribals for their land rights. The third march in Ahilyanagar saw thousands of farmers, government school employees, mid-day meal workers, Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, construction labourers participation. The protestors intend to walk almost 150 kilometres to reach the Ahilyanagar Collectorate. Tuesday was the first day of the march. “We expect that more people will join the march as we move ahead,” Mr Navale said.
