Maharashtra Government Urges Maratha Reservation Activist to Reconsider Mumbai Protest Plans

Government Appeals to Maratha Activist

In Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, along with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has reached out to Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange, urging him to engage in discussions with the state government and reconsider his plans to protest in Mumbai during the Ganesh festival.

Shinde informed reporters that he has communicated this message to Jarange's close associates.

The Shiv Sena leader acknowledged that Jarange, aged 43, has every right to demonstrate in support of his demands, but he should also take into account the significance of the Ganesh festival and its large-scale celebrations in Mumbai.

Meeting with Government Officials

On the eve of the Ganesh festival, Rajendra Sable Patil, a special officer from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's office, visited Jarange in the village of Antarwali Sarati in Jalna district.

Patil requested Jarange to postpone his movement and inquired about the route the protesters would take to Mumbai.

Jarange's Demands and Ultimatum

Jarange is advocating for the Maratha community to be recognized as belonging to the Kunbi caste, which is classified under the Other Backward Classes, to secure reservations in education and government jobs.

He has issued an ultimatum to the Maharashtra government, demanding 10% reservation for Marathas by Tuesday, August 26. Jarange has made it clear that if his demands are not met, he will commence a foot march towards Mumbai on Ganesh Chaturthi, August 27, and will initiate an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan on August 29.

BJP's Call for Dialogue

Keshav Upadhyay, the chief spokesperson for the BJP's Maharashtra unit, has urged Jarange to reconsider his plans for a rally in Mumbai, emphasizing that dialogue with the government is the most effective way forward.

In a post on the social media platform X, Upadhyay stated, "Jarange ji, our stance aligns with yours. Your decision to raise community issues through constitutional means is commendable. This approach is crucial for constructive dialogue, as conversation is more effective than protest."

Commitment to Justice for Marathas

He reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring justice for the Maratha community.

The BJP spokesperson highlighted that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has consistently worked in favor of the Maratha community.

Upadhyay noted, "During his previous tenure as Chief Minister, Fadnavis provided reservations to Marathas and ensured its upholding in the High Court, even fighting for it in the Supreme Court."