Maratha Activist Manoj Jarange To Launch Indefinite Fast Protest Again Over Demand For Reservation

Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange has announced a new indefinite hunger strike. He aims to for reservation for the Maratha community in jobs education under the Other Backward Classes (O) category. Jarange, aged 42 shared with the media that he would disclose the date for his hunger strike on Tuesday. He also extended an invitation to Maratha community members to join his protest.

The announcement comes as the BJP-led Mahayuti government seeks stability after its cabinet expansion on December 15. Jarange clarified that participation in the hunger strike is voluntary, though it is part of a larger state-wide quota agitation led by him. "Anyone from the community who is willing to join the fast is welcome. There is no pressure on anyone," he stated.

Maratha Community's Quota Demands

Jarange demands that the government implement a draft notification recognising Kunbis as 'sage soyare' (those related by birth or marriage) of Marathas. This recognition would grant them reservation benefits under the OBC category. The agrarian Kunbi community already enjoys such benefits under this category.

He also urged the government to expedite the work of the Justice (retd) Sandeep Shinde Committee. This committee was established by Maharashtra's government to speed up granting Kunbi certificates to Marathas, making them eligible for quotas. In February, a bill was passed providing 10% reservation for Marathas in education and government jobs under a separate category.

Government's Response and Legislative Actions

The activist insists that the BJP-led government must demonstrate its commitment to resolving this issue during Nagpur's winter session of the state legislature. Jarange believes concrete steps are necessary to address these demands effectively.

Despite legislative actions earlier this year, Jarange continues to advocate for Maratha reservations under the OBC head rather than a separate category. His persistent efforts highlight ongoing challenges in achieving equitable representation for his community.

Jarange's call for action coincides with political shifts within Maharashtra's leadership, adding urgency to his demands. As tensions rise, all eyes are on how both activists and policymakers will navigate this complex issue.