Maratha Quota Battle Intensifies: Manoj Jarange Begins Indefinite Hunger Strike in Mumbai

The long-simmering Maratha quota agitation has reached a critical juncture as community leader Manoj Jarange commenced an indefinite hunger strike in Mumbai on Saturday, once again challenging the Maharashtra government over reservation demands. Surrounded by thousands of fervent supporters, Jarange launched his fast in Navi Mumbai, asserting that he would not relent until the state fully implements its draft notification on 'sage soyare' (blood relatives) and issues Kunbi caste certificates to all eligible Marathas.

Jarange's arrival in Mumbai from Jalna district was met with immense crowds, a testament to his significant influence among the Maratha community.

Originally planning to hold his protest at the APMC market in Vashi, police redirected the massive gathering to the Kharghar area of Navi Mumbai, where the indefinite fast began. His primary demands remain unwavering: prompt issuance of Kunbi certificates, which would grant Marathas access to Other Backward Classes (OBC) reservation benefits, and the immediate withdrawal of all cases filed against Maratha protestors during previous agitations.

This latest escalation follows a period of intense negotiation and legislative action.

In February, the Maharashtra State Backward Class Commission (MSBCC) submitted a report concluding that the Maratha community is socially and educationally backward, recommending a 10% reservation. While the state government subsequently passed a bill granting this reservation, Jarange and his supporters deem it insufficient, insisting on the Kunbi certificates for inclusion in the existing OBC category, which offers more robust benefits.

The 'sage soyare' draft notification, which allows Marathas with genealogical proof of Kunbi lineage to claim OBC status, has been a key point of contention.

Jarange alleges that despite the government's promise, the implementation has been deliberately delayed, failing to reach the wider Maratha community. He vehemently criticized the state leadership for its perceived inaction, threatening to escalate the protest further if his demands are not met swiftly.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has appealed to Jarange, urging him to withdraw his strike and reiterated the government's commitment to addressing the community's concerns.

However, Jarange remains resolute, emphasizing that a mere appeal is not enough; concrete action and immediate implementation are what he seeks. The political stakes are incredibly high, with the upcoming assembly elections looming, as the Maratha vote bank holds significant sway.

The indefinite fast signals a renewed period of instability and pressure for the state government.

Thousands of supporters, many having traveled long distances, have gathered to stand in solidarity with Jarange, indicating the widespread sentiment and deep-seated desire for reservation within the Maratha community. As the protest unfolds, all eyes are on Mumbai, awaiting the government's next move in this high-stakes battle for social justice and political recognition.