The Maharashtra government in Jalna district has imposed prohibitory orders due to protests by the Dhangar community seeking Scheduled Tribes (ST) status, an official confirmed on January 17, 2026. District Collector Ashima Mittal issued the order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), targeting public safety and law and order concerns. The restrictions will be in place from 5 a.m. to midnight on January 18 in Jalna and Ambad tehsils. The order bans gatherings of more than five people and the carrying of arms. All shops, businesses, and schools must remain closed. Authorities fear unrest as the Dhangar community, which makes up about 9% of Maharashtra’s population and currently has 3.5% reservation under the Nomadic Tribes category, pushes for ST recognition. Dhangar leader Deepak Borhade had planned a protest at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan but was denied permission by police. The order noted that Borhade and his supporters might travel from several areas including Ambad, Jamkhed, Pachod, and Pune, potentially causing law and order issues. The Dhangars claim they are the same as the constitutionally recognised “Dhangads,” currently listed as ST, and demand the same status.