Hyderabad: A small argument over parking turned into a loud protest against the Marwari community, urging them to leave. This has sparked a big political and social debate in the state, with some groups calling for a boycott of Marwari-run shops.
The conflict began last week when a Marwari jewelry shop owner had a dispute with someone from a marginalized group at Monda Market. The shop owner allegedly insulted and attacked the person. Things escalated when local MLA T Padma Rao Goud reportedly attacked the Marwari, causing an uproar among weaker sections after social media highlighted the incident.
In response, the Vishwakarmas and Aryavaishyas communities voiced their opposition to the Marwaris. Some organizations urged boycotts of Marwari shops and demanded they leave. A meeting held in Hyderabad on the “Marwari issue” called for laws to protect local businesses. Speakers questioned whether political parties favored Marwari money or local votes.
Sociologist Prof Haragopal addressed the meeting, recalling that during the Telangana agitation, there was no demand for exclusive local business ownership. He emphasized the need for this discussion now.
The OU JAC and Vaisya Vikas Vedika announced a Telangana bandh on August 22, demanding “Marwari hatao Telangana bachao.” JAC Chairman K Tirupati accused Marwaris and Rajasthanis of intruding on traditional professions.
Jignesh Doshi from the Gujarati Samaj stated they came from Gujarat and Rajasthan to do business and support their families, not seeking government jobs. He insisted the incident shouldn’t reflect on the entire community and suggested a conspiracy was at play. He humorously questioned if they should take their sister back to Gujarat, referring to Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka as family.
The BJP condemned the campaign, labeling it a plot against Marwaris who uphold Hindu Dharma. Union Minister Bandi Sanjay accused Congress, BRS, and MIM of fueling the campaign, warning of a “Rohingyas go back” response if it continued.
PCC Chief B Mahesh Goud opposed the campaign, affirming everyone’s right to conduct business anywhere in India. He stated that Marwaris are integral to Telangana culture, and the Congress party will not support such divisive actions.
