Tue Feb 24 21:08:42 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Farmers and Workers Launch Third Long March in Maharashtra Demanding Fulfillment of Forest Rights Act and Improved Conditions

The Story:
Thousands of protestors, including farmers, government school employees, mid-day meal workers, Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, and construction laborers, commenced a long march from Rajur in Ahilyanagar on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Organized by the All India Kisan Sabha and CITU, this is the third such march in Maharashtra in recent weeks, following similar demonstrations in Nashik and Palghar. Protesters are demanding the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, land ownership rights, timely salary payments, and improved working conditions. The government has called for a meeting to address the issues raised.

Key Points:

  • Over 5000 protestors participated in the march on its first day.
  • The march is organized by the All India Kisan Sabha and CITU.
  • Protestors claim previous promises made by the government regarding their demands have not been fulfilled for almost three years.
  • Demands include implementation of the Forest Rights Act, land ownership rights, fallow land rights, MSP for tribal crops, timely salary payments for government employees, and improved working conditions.
  • The government has called for a meeting on Wednesday, February 24, 2026, to discuss the issues.
  • Concerns about the Nashik-Pune high-speed railway and potable water supply are also raised.

Key Takeaways:

  • The convergence of various worker groups suggests a widespread discontent with the government’s handling of labor and land rights issues.
  • The failure of the government to fulfill previous promises has eroded trust and led to renewed agitation.
  • The long march is a significant escalation of protests, indicating the protestors are determined to have their voices heard.

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