Telangana ‘Marwari Go Back’ demonstration sparked by a parking dispute

A parking conflict in Secunderabad, Telangana, has turned into a more significant scandal, igniting the state-wide “Marwari Go Back” movement. According to reports, the argument started when a man from a caste that was marginalized was attacked by members of the Jain and Marwari communities, who allegedly used derogatory language based on caste. Local organizations and activists staged protests in response to the tragedy.

Marwari and Gujarati traders, according to protesters, have aggressively expanded in Telangana, undercutting local companies and introducing fake goods into the market. They contend that these actions are undermining cultural traditions and hurting local livelihoods.

Union Minister of State Bandi Sanjay Kumar strongly opposed the campaign, calling it politically motivated. “This is a conspiracy against Marwari and Gujarati communities because they support the BJP and stand for protecting Sanatana Dharma,” he said. He added that instead of targeting business communities, the state government should act against illegal Rohingya migrants.

Goshamahal MLA T Raja Singh also came to the community’s defense, warning of strict action. “Anyone who tries to defame the Marwari and Gujarati community will be sent to jail,” he said.

Local activist Prithviraj, however, accused the BJP of siding with business lobbies. “Marwaris are selling 50 percent duplicate products in their shops and exploiting Telangana’s culture. Those leading this campaign are being threatened by communal elements,” he alleged, urging the BJP to take responsibility for addressing migrant issues since it has been in power nationally for over a decade.

Having migrated during the Nizam’s reign and continued to be involved in trade following Hyderabad’s 1948 accession to India, the Marwari community has a lengthy history in Hyderabad.  As Gujarati, Rajasthani, and other North Indian commercial groups have spread throughout Telangana over time, some local traders have become resentful.

As the campaign gains momentum, police are keeping a tight eye on the situation to avoid any communal flare-ups.