Maratha Quota Protest: Jarange Starts Hunger Strike May 30

Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange is starting a new protest on May 30. This is a renewed effort after previous talks did not fully resolve the issues.
By Newsroom | Social Issues, Maharashtra |

New Agitation Planned, Deadline Set

Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange has declared an indefinite hunger strike commencing May 30, signaling a fresh wave of agitation over unresolved demands concerning reservation for the Maratha community. Jarange has presented the Maharashtra government with a deadline of May 29 to fulfill key promises, primarily the distribution of 'Kunbi' caste certificates within the Marathwada region. The activist cited the state government's recent policy, which he claims bars reserved category candidates from occupying open category seats, as a catalyst for the renewed protest.

Manoj Jarange warns of fresh agitation over Maratha quota issue from May 30 - 1

The core of the escalating tension lies in the alleged stalling of Kunbi caste certificate issuance to Marathas and a government resolution that prevents reserved category candidates from claiming open category positions. Jarange contends that this policy, if enacted earlier, would have prevented the Maratha community's "seats" from being taken. He also called for the dissolution of the Maratha quota sub-committee, asserting its ineffectiveness, and pushed for a dedicated ministry for Maratha and Kunbi communities.

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Manoj Jarange warns of fresh agitation over Maratha quota issue from May 30 - 2

Demands and Accusations

Speaking from Antarwali Sarati village in Jalna district, Jarange articulated his community's grievances. He asserted that the state government has "completely halted the process of issuing Kunbi caste certificates," a critical step for Marathas seeking inclusion in the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.

Manoj Jarange warns of fresh agitation over Maratha quota issue from May 30 - 3

  • Jarange also demanded government jobs for the kin of those who perished during prior Maratha reservation movements.

  • He additionally called for the withdrawal of all criminal charges against Maratha protesters from past demonstrations.

  • The activist expressed concerns that financial aid schemes intended for the Maratha community are being delayed.

Jarange urged community experts and scholars to convene in Antarwali Sarati on May 28 to deliberate on the implications of the Maharashtra government's recent GR concerning open category seats.

Background

The push for Maratha reservation has been a persistent and often contentious issue in Maharashtra politics. Previous agitations, led by Jarange and others, have seen widespread protests, including hunger strikes and road blockades, demanding inclusion in the OBC quota. The legal and political landscape surrounding reservation has been complex, with various court judgments and government policies shaping the discourse. The Maratha community, comprising a significant portion of the state's population, has long argued for its distinct socio-economic status and the need for affirmative action.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Manoj Jarange starting a hunger strike on May 30?
Manoj Jarange is starting a hunger strike because his demands for the Maratha community's reservation have not been met. He wants the government to act quickly.
Q: What is the deadline for the Maharashtra government?
The deadline for the Maharashtra government is May 29. Jarange wants them to issue Kunbi caste certificates and address other key issues by this date.
Q: What are the main demands of Manoj Jarange?
Jarange's main demands include the quick issuance of Kunbi caste certificates for Marathas in the Marathwada region. He also wants jobs for families of those who died during past protests and withdrawal of criminal cases against protesters.
Q: What is the new government policy that Jarange is unhappy about?
Jarange is unhappy about a recent government policy that he claims stops reserved category candidates from taking open category seats. He believes this policy could harm the Maratha community's chances for jobs and education.
Q: What does Jarange want to happen next?
Jarange wants community experts to meet on May 28 to discuss the new government policy. He plans to start his hunger strike on May 30 if his demands are not met by May 29.