STUDY OF CLINICAL PROFILE AND HEALTH CARE ISSUES OF PROTESTORS BROUGHT TO TERTIARY TEACHING HOSPITAL, DURING MARATHA RALLY IN MUMBAI

Background: Mass gatherings, including political rallies, pose significant public health challenges due to overcrowding, poor sanitation, and limited access to healthcare. The Maratha Rally in Mumbai (August–September 2025) was one of the largest political gatherings in recent years. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical profile and healthcare issues of protestors presenting to a tertiary teaching hospital during the event. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational descriptive study was conducted at a tertiary-care public teaching hospital in South Mumbai during the rally period (29 August–2 September 2025). Data were collected from emergency, outpatient, and inpatient records. Variables analysed included demographic profile, presenting complaints, management, and outcomes. Descriptive statistics were applied, and results were expressed as frequencies and percentages. A total of 249 protest-related patients were included: 224 outpatient Results: s and 25 inpatients. All were male, with mean ages of 34.2 ± 11.8 years (outpatients) and 42.9 ± 16.5 years (inpatients). Acute febrile illness (AFI) was the most common presentation (19.6% outpatients, 40% inpatients), followed by pain-related complaints (22.8%), trauma (13.4%), and fatigue (9.4%). Management was mainly supportive with IV fluids, antipyretics, and analgesics. Among admitted patients, 68% opted for discharge against medical advice (DAMA). Conclusion: The Maratha Rally caused a significant surge in healthcare utilization, mainly for febrile and trauma-related conditions. The findings emphasize the importance of preparedness, dedicated triage systems, and rapid medical support during large public gatherings and political rallies.