EXYnow, a mobile phone application is being used to ensure maximum turnout at Maratha protests. (File)
A new mobile application will now provide information and help coordinate protests by the Maratha community in Maharashtra. The application -- called EXYnow -- has already been downloaded 500 times.
Developed by a Kolhapur-based software firm for the Maratha Kranti Morcha -- which is leading the protests - the application will contain details about previous protests, and proposed marches and help with the organization of local protest groups.
"The application is going to be used for holding all future rallies across the state, including the Mumbai rally later this month. Many community leaders are organizing local meetings and this will help with better communication," said Vinayak Bhogan, the man behind the EXYnow application.
"I am testing the application for the October 15th rally, which will be organized in Kolhapur. I can make some changes as per the requirement which is crucial for the Mumbai rally," he said.
The application is already having an effect claim some community leaders. At the Morcha's 'war room', setup in Kolhapur, protestors are using the technology to coordinate routes, communicate with far-off towns and villages and even keep a tab on the legal permissions required for the protests.
Volunteers can also confirm their participation in the various marches through the mobile phone application. Once registered, volunteers can then upload photos or videos about the protest. The application also acts as a communication platform during the rallies.
The team behind the application call themselves "digital volunteers" and are canvassing throughout the community through social media. They also act the organization's media cell and track news about the protests on media.
With only 10 days left for the Mumbai rally, the organisation has stepped up efforts to reach out to a large number of people to ensure a heavy turnout.