Maharashtra farmers protest: The discussions will include Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, relevant ministers, and top state officials.
Eknath Shinde, Chief Minister of Maharashtra
According to former MLA Jiva Gavit, who is leading the long march, the Maharashtra government will hold another round of talks with a delegation representing thousands of farmers and tribals who are walking towards Mumbai on Thursday in order to address their demands.
The talks will take place with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, relevant ministers, and top state officials, he said. As hundreds of farmers and tribals marched towards Mumbai from Nashik district in North Maharashtra, ministers Dada Bhuse and Atul Save met a delegation of farmers late Wednesday night in Thane district.
Mr Gavit, a former legislator, stated that the ministers have invited a delegation of farmers and tribals to meet with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday.
"They've responded to 40% of the demands," Mr Gavit stated.
"In response to the invitation, we will attend the meeting," Mr Gavit stated. He added that if the government's responses are unsatisfactory, the march will continue.
Mr Gavit stated during the meeting on Wednesday night that the ministers were optimistic about some of their demands. The decisions, however, will be made in the state secretariat.
Protesters carrying red flags began their foot march from Dindori town in Nashik district, about 200 kilometres from Mumbai, on Sunday in support of their various demands, which include immediate financial relief of 600 per quintal to onion growers, 12 hours of uninterrupted electricity supply, and a waiver of agriculture loans.
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