MLC Zeeshan Siddique Asks CM To Withdraw FIRs Against Student Protesters

On July 25, 2026, Maharashtra Legislative Council member Zeeshan Baba Siddique wrote to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, requesting the withdrawal of FIRs registered against students who participated in recent protests across the state.

Siddique appealed for a compassionate approach towards the students, stating that many young people had taken to the streets in Mumbai, Pune, and other parts of Maharashtra to voice their concerns. He noted that several students had also received police notices following the demonstrations.

The MLC argued that criminal proceedings at the beginning of a student's life could adversely affect their academic and professional future. He urged the Chief Minister to consider withdrawing the FIRs, stating that the burden of criminal proceedings should not cast a shadow over their academic and professional futures.

Siddique maintained that closing the cases would send a positive message about democracy, fairness, and reconciliation. He emphasized that while respect for the law is essential, students who had peacefully expressed their concerns should be given an opportunity to move forward without facing the long-term consequences of criminal litigation.

The letter comes amid ongoing discussions over the handling of student protests in Maharashtra, with demands from various quarters for a balanced approach that protects both public order and the future of young protesters. The state government has been facing criticism for its response to the protests, with many calling for a more nuanced approach.

Siddique's appeal is seen as a significant development in the ongoing debate over the handling of student protests in Maharashtra. The MLC's letter has sparked hopes that the state government may reconsider its approach and withdraw the FIRs against the student protesters.

The issue of student protests has been a contentious one in Maharashtra, with many students taking to the streets to voice their concerns on various issues. The state government has been facing pressure to balance the need to maintain public order with the need to protect the rights of students to peaceful protest.

In recent months, there have been several instances of student protests in Maharashtra, with many students facing police action for participating in these protests. The issue has sparked a wider debate over the handling of student protests and the need for a more balanced approach.

The Maharashtra Legislative Council has been actively engaged in the debate, with many members calling for a more nuanced approach to handling student protests. Siddique's letter is seen as a significant contribution to this debate, and it remains to be seen how the state government will respond to his appeal.

In conclusion, the issue of student protests in Maharashtra is a complex one, with many competing interests and concerns at play. While the need to maintain public order is essential, it is also important to protect the rights of students to peaceful protest. Siddique's appeal for a compassionate approach towards student protesters is a significant development in this debate, and it highlights the need for a more balanced approach to handling student protests in Maharashtra.

The state government's response to Siddique's appeal will be closely watched, and it remains to be seen whether the FIRs against the student protesters will be withdrawn. However, one thing is clear: the issue of student protests in Maharashtra is an important one, and it requires a nuanced and balanced approach that takes into account the competing interests and concerns at play.

As the debate over the handling of student protests in Maharashtra continues, it is essential to remember that the rights of students to peaceful protest must be protected. At the same time, the need to maintain public order must also be taken into account. A balanced approach that takes into account these competing interests and concerns is essential, and it is hoped that the state government will respond to Siddique's appeal in a positive and constructive manner.

The future of student protests in Maharashtra hangs in the balance, and it remains to be seen how the state government will respond to the ongoing debate. However, one thing is clear: the need for a balanced approach that protects both public order and the rights of students to peaceful protest is essential, and it is hoped that the state government will take a positive and constructive approach to this issue.

In the end, the issue of student protests in Maharashtra is a complex one, and it requires a nuanced and balanced approach. While the need to maintain public order is essential, it is also important to protect the rights of students to peaceful protest. It is hoped that the state government will respond to Siddique's appeal in a positive and constructive manner, and that a balanced approach will be taken to handling student protests in Maharashtra.