Activist Manoj Jarange announced on Monday the suspension of his 17-day hunger strike concerning the Maratha quota issue. However, he emphasized that the agitation would persist until the Maharashtra government commences the issuance of Kunbi caste certificates to extended family members of those already possessing such documents. This measure would enable them to avail reservation benefits.
Jarange’s decision follows his announcement of a march to Mumbai to advocate for demands related to quota in jobs and education for the Maratha community, coinciding with the commencement of the budget session of the state legislature in Mumbai.
Last week, both houses of the state legislature passed a bill unanimously, providing a 10 per cent separate reservation for the Maratha community in education and government jobs. Despite this, Jarange insisted on quota for Marathas under the OBC category and continued his fast.
Jarange stated, “Although I am suspending my agitation (hunger strike) today, 3 to 4 youths will sit here and fast every day for our demands. I will also visit some villages and explain my stand to them.”
Regarding the numerous police complaints filed against him over the quota stir, Jarange remained undeterred, stating, “If they want to prosecute me, I have no issues, but (by doing so) they will invite trouble.”
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde issued a warning to Jarange, urging him not to test the patience of the state government after Jarange leveled allegations against Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, referencing his caste.
Jarange had expressed doubts about the legality of the Maratha quota bill and prompted the government to issue a draft notification recently. This notification suggested that if a Maratha individual can prove affiliation with the agrarian Kunbi community, their blood relatives would also be eligible for Kunbi caste certificates, falling under the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) category.
Jarange has been advocating for the issuance of Kunbi certificates to all Marathas to make them eligible for quota benefits.
