Maratha Leader Manoj Jarange Set to Start Hunger Strike in Mumbai for Reservation

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: On August 27, PTI reported that Manoj Jarange, a prominent leader of the Maratha quota movement, is steadfast in his decision to begin an agitation in Mumbai from August 29. Despite the Maharashtra government's efforts to deter him, Jarange is determined to start an indefinite hunger strike in Mumbai to push for Maratha reservation.

Manoj Jarange, speaking from his native village Antarwali Sarathi in Jalna district, assured that his supporters would protest peacefully, ensuring there would be no inconvenience caused during the Ganesh festival. The 43-year-old activist addressed his supporters before departing for Mumbai, stating that attempts might be made to provoke the protestors, but they are committed to maintaining peace at Azad Maidan.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the ruling coalition head BJP had previously urged Jarange to reconsider his protest's timing due to the commencement of Ganeshotsav on August 27. His supporters, however, are unwavering in their demand that all Marathas be recognized as Kunbis, an agrarian caste listed under the OBC category, which would make them eligible for government job and education reservations.

Jarange emphasized that any discussion with the state government delegation must be conducted openly and in public, rejecting closed-door meetings. He has been adamant that the Maratha community will achieve their quota this time. Before heading to Mumbai, he criticized Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, accusing him of being "anti-Hindu and anti-Maratha." He stated that even with imposed restrictions, the protest in Mumbai would proceed, leaving the decision in the hands of Fadnavis to grant permission.

The Janla police granted permission for Jarange's march to Mumbai, under 40 specified conditions aimed at preventing law and order disruptions. Officials instructed protesters to avoid using objectionable slogans or deviating from the designated route. They also emphasized preventing disruption to vehicle, ambulance, and fire brigade movements and protecting public property from damage.

Protestors were further instructed not to carry weapons, rods, wooden sticks, or stones, with precautions mandated to maintain public order and avert any untoward incidents. Meanwhile, in Latur district, a 35-year-old man attempted suicide, accusing the government of procrastinating on the Maratha reservation issue and repeatedly forcing the activist to resort to hunger strikes. Baliram Shripati Mule from Shingdi (Bu) village drank poison on Tuesday and was hospitalized in Latur.

In early 2024, under Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's leadership, the Maharashtra government enacted a law providing 10 percent reservation to Marathas under a separate category. Despite this, Jarange insists that his community members should receive quotas under the OBC category.