Why Did the Maharashtra Government Extend the Genealogy Committee's Term Until June 30, 2026?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Maharashtra government has extended the Genealogy Committee's term to June 30, 2026. This decision comes amidst ongoing protests led by pro-Maratha activist Manoj Jarange-Patil, who demands reservations for the Maratha community. The situation has led to increased police presence and severe traffic congestion as supporters flock to Mumbai.
Key Takeaways
- The Maharashtra government extended the Genealogy Committee's term to June 30, 2026.
- The committee issues caste certificates for the Maratha community.
- Manoj Jarange-Patil's protest is ongoing, demanding OBC quota reservations.
- Traffic disruptions have been significant in Mumbai due to the protests.
- Increased police presence aims to maintain order amidst large gatherings.
Mumbai, Aug 30 (NationPress) As the indefinite fast by pro-Maratha activist Manoj Jarange-Patil entered its second day, the Maharashtra government on Saturday extended the Genealogy Committee’s term until June 30, 2026. The committee is tasked with issuing caste certificates and caste validity certificates to eligible members of the Maratha community, including those of the Kunbi, Maratha-Kunbi, and Kunbi-Maratha castes in the state.
Social Justice and Special Assistance Minister Sanjay Shirsat announced this decision, stating that a necessary resolution would be issued.
“The committee was established under a government decision from the Social Justice and Special Assistance Department dated January 25, 2024. Its previous term was extended to June 30, 2025, and subsequently, the term of the high-level committee led by Justice Sandeep Shinde (Retd) was extended until December 31, 2025. Thus, the government deemed it necessary to provide the Taluka Level Genealogy Committee an additional six months beyond the high-level committee's extension, leading to the current extension until June 30, 2026,” said Minister Shirsat.
According to the government notification, all provisions from the decision dated January 25, 2024 will remain applicable to this committee.
Previously, the Mumbai Police granted permission to Jarange-Patil for his protest at Azad Maidan until Saturday evening. However, he declared that he would remain in Mumbai until the state government addresses his demands, which include reservation for the Maratha community within the OBC quota.
A significant number of Jarange-Patil's supporters gathered in and around Azad Maidan on Saturday, causing disruptions to traffic.
In light of this, police have reinforced personnel to maintain law and order.
Alongside city police, teams from the Central Industrial Security Force and the Central Reserve Police Force have been deployed to prevent any potential incidents.
While police had authorized the assembly of 5,000 protestors at Azad Maidan, many more gathered, leading to long vehicle queues on the Eastern Freeway. Thousands of Maratha supporters from all over Maharashtra are converging on Mumbai.
A substantial traffic jam has developed between Wadala-CSMT on the Eastern Freeway as vehicles have been lined up since morning. Many truck owners and vehicle operators are providing accommodation and food for supporters, exacerbating congestion across various parts of the city.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the evolving dynamics surrounding the Maratha quota issue. The government's decision to extend the Genealogy Committee's term reflects a commitment to addressing the concerns of the Maratha community. However, it also poses challenges in terms of maintaining law and order amid protests. This situation warrants careful observation as it unfolds, emphasizing the need for dialogue and resolution.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Genealogy Committee?
The Genealogy Committee is responsible for issuing caste certificates and caste validity certificates to eligible individuals from the Maratha community, including the Kunbi, Maratha-Kunbi, and Kunbi-Maratha castes.
Why was the term of the Genealogy Committee extended?
The Maharashtra government extended the term to provide more time for the committee to operate effectively, considering the ongoing demands from the Maratha community for reservations.
What are the demands of Manoj Jarange-Patil?
Manoj Jarange-Patil is demanding reservations for the Maratha community within the Other Backward Classes (OBC) quota and has vowed to continue his protest until these demands are met.
How has the protest affected traffic in Mumbai?
The protest has caused significant traffic congestion on the Eastern Freeway and surrounding areas, with thousands of supporters converging on Mumbai, leading to long vehicle queues.
What measures have been taken to maintain law and order during the protests?
The police have deployed additional personnel, including teams from the Central Industrial Security Force and the Central Reserve Police Force, to maintain law and order during the protests.
