Jarange Urges GR on Maratha Quota Based on Existing Records

Quick Summary

• Maratha quota agitation leader Manoj Jarange has been on a hunger strike since August 29, 2025, demanding a government resolution (GR) for Maratha reservations under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.
• Mr. Jarange claims that records showing connections between Marathas and the agrarian Kunbi caste support their eligibility for OBC benefits. He states there are 58 lakh such records.
• Addressing supporters at Azad Maidan in Mumbai, Mr. Jarange vowed to continue the protest until demands are met and accused the Maharashtra government of delaying tactics regarding the reservation issue.
• He criticized Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis for allegedly failing to deliver on promises made during his tenure as Chief Minister related to quotas for Dhangar communities and farm loan waivers.
• The activist alleged interference by authorities in preventing supporters from joining his protest in Mumbai, while asserting that political consequences would follow if demands were not addressed.
• Mr. Jarange called on protesters to remain peaceful and respectful towards visitors, including media personnel and public figures like NCP MP Supriya Sule.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The demand for Maratha reservations remains one of Maharashtra’s most contentious socio-political issues,with important implications for governance and caste dynamics in India. Manoj Jarange’s hunger strike highlights growing frustration among sections of the community who feel marginalized despite historical evidence linking them to castes already entitled to OBC benefits.

The issue underscores broader challenges faced by governments when balancing constitutional provisions like affirmative action with legal complexities surrounding inclusivity without alienation or contestation from other groups currently benefiting under quotas.

While peaceful protests demonstrate democratic expression, prolonged unrest could strain state administrative resources further complicating an already sensitive policy area requiring informed mediation & judgments balancing historicity justice/ electoral-pipeline perceptions alike-read! ensuring equitability persists longer-term..

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