Flames of Controversy: OBC Activist's Car Torched Amidst Reservation Tensions in Maharashtra

In a disturbing turn of events that underscores the escalating tensions surrounding caste-based reservations in Maharashtra, the car of prominent Other Backward Classes (OBC) activist Prof Laxman Hake was deliberately set on fire in the early hours of Saturday morning. The incident, which took place in Ghanswangi taluka of Jalna district, has sent shockwaves across the state and raised serious concerns about the safety of activists involved in the volatile debate.

According to police reports, Prof Hake’s vehicle, a four-wheeler, was parked outside his residence when it was engulfed in flames.

While the exact cause of the fire is under investigation, Hake himself has unequivocally stated that he suspects foul play, linking the act directly to his outspoken stance on the contentious Maratha reservation issue.

Prof Hake has been a leading voice in opposing the demands of Maratha reservation leader Manoj Jarange Patil, particularly regarding the inclusion of Marathas in the OBC category through 'sage soyare' (blood relatives) certificates.

His recent hunger strike to protest these demands brought him into the national spotlight, highlighting the deep divisions within various communities over access to reservations in education and government jobs.

“This is clearly an act of revenge, an attempt to threaten me and silence my voice against injustice,” Hake declared, speaking to media after the incident.

“But such cowardly acts will not deter me from fighting for the rights of the OBC community. I appeal to all my supporters to maintain peace and let the law take its course.”

The local police have registered a case under Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 435, which pertains to mischief by fire or explosive substance with intent to cause damage.

A thorough investigation is currently underway to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice. Authorities are examining all angles, including the possibility of political motivation given the high-profile nature of Hake’s activism.

This alarming act of arson comes at a time when Maharashtra is grappling with intense protests and counter-protests over reservation policies.

The Maratha community’s persistent demand for reservation under the OBC quota has created a significant cleavage, with existing OBC communities feeling threatened by potential dilution of their own reservation benefits. Prof Hake has been at the forefront of this resistance, making him a visible target for those who disagree with his stance.

The incident serves as a grim reminder of the volatile social and political climate in Maharashtra, where deeply entrenched caste dynamics often spill over into real-world conflicts.

As the investigation continues, political leaders and civil society members have condemned the act, calling for swift action against those responsible and urging all parties to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation of tensions.