Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, has called for a united and concerted effort to identify and address issues related to ‘mathadis’ (porters) involved in blackmail and extortion, while emphasizing the need for strict action against them. Speaking at a rally commemorating the birth anniversary of the late Mathadi leader Annadsaheb Patil in Vashi, Fadnavis conveyed the state government’s intention not to impose new regulations on ‘mathadis’ but to amend the existing act, which is over half a century old, to address transgressions. Fadnavis highlighted the adverse impact on the state’s industries due to the presence of fraudulent and “extortionist” mathadis, citing cases where businesses relocated out of the state. He instructed the Navi Mumbai police to take action against counterfeit ‘mathadis’ who demand a 25 percent share in agreements.
“As we amend the Mathadi, Hamal, and Other Manual Workers Act, we will ensure that the core principles envisioned by Annasaheb Patil are preserved,” he assured.
Furthermore, Fadnavis underscored the significance of elevating the Maratha community and ensuring their development. Through the Annasheb Patil Arthik Mahamandal, the Maratha community has seen the emergence of over 70,000 industrialists, with a staggering Rs 5,000 crore in interest-free loans extended to them. The government has allocated Rs 507 crore annually to support this initiative, as disclosed by Fadnavis.