Sendhwa MLA Montu Solanki was stopped by police at his office for around one-and-a-half hours on Friday while he was preparing to join a protest in Niwali, Barwani district. The legislator was accompanied by more than 300 supporters and was heading to the ongoing agitation demanding action against Block Education Officer (BEO) Manoj Marathe.

After discussions with administrative and police officials, and in the absence of a written order regarding the officer, Solanki eventually left for Niwali along with his supporters.

Protest Against BEO Continues

The agitation in Niwali has been continuing for the past four days. Members of the Jai Adivasi Yuva Shakti (JAYS) organisation have been demanding the removal and suspension of BEO Manoj Marathe.

According to the allegations raised by protesters, a criminal case has been registered against Marathe at Sendhwa Rural Police Station and he has also been accused of abetting a teacher's suicide.

Solanki was scheduled to join the protest and demanded that the BEO's financial powers be withdrawn immediately and that he be suspended pending further action.

MLA Stopped at Office

As Solanki prepared to travel to Niwali, police personnel stopped him at his office. The MLA remained there for approximately 90 minutes while discussions were held with officials.

Sendhwa SDOP Ajay Waghmare reportedly met Solanki and discussed the situation. Police and administrative officials gave an oral assurance that action would be considered against the BEO.

However, no written suspension order was presented to the MLA during the discussions.

Written Order Remains Key Demand

After waiting for around one-and-a-half hours, Solanki decided to proceed to Niwali with his supporters.

The MLA has maintained that a verbal assurance is not sufficient and has sought concrete action against Marathe. His demand includes immediate withdrawal of the BEO's financial powers and suspension from the post.

The ongoing dispute has also brought the administration's handling of the allegations against the education official under scrutiny.

MLA Warns of Stronger Agitation

Solanki alleged that the officer facing criminal allegations was being protected by the government and administration.

He warned that the agitation would be intensified if authorities failed to take prompt action or attempted to suppress the protest.

The MLA said the responsibility for any escalation would rest with the administration.

Protest Now in Focus

With Solanki reaching Niwali with more than 300 supporters, the situation is expected to remain closely watched. The protesters are continuing to press for written action against the BEO rather than relying solely on assurances from officials.

The administration's next step on the suspension demand is likely to determine whether the protest is withdrawn or expanded.