Mumbai: Tension was reported at Tilak Bhavan on Tuesday, October 6, after members of an Adivasi students’ organisation alleged that a heavy police deployment stopped their planned march towards Mantralaya.

The protesters said they intended to take out a morcha to press for their demands but were prevented from proceeding beyond Tilak Bhavan. The police deployment and movement of protesters also affected traffic in the area.

Organisers said they had earlier sought permission from Mumbai Police to hold the demonstration at Azad Maidan, but permission was not granted. They subsequently sought to meet the Governor on October 6 to present their demands.

According to the organisers, instead of being allowed to meet the Governor, several protesters were detained and taken away in buses. They alleged that the buses were sent to different locations, including Nashik and Jalgaon. The exact number of people detained and the reasons for their detention were not immediately available.

The protesters said they would continue their agitation and planned another demonstration on October 25. They also said they would again seek permission from Mumbai Police to hold the protest at Azad Maidan.

The latest action comes amid growing concerns among tribal student groups over their demands and their ability to hold demonstrations in Mumbai. Further details about the protesters’ demands and the police action were awaited.