Why Did Maha Minister Bhujbal Call OBC Leaders’ Meeting?
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Synopsis
Maharashtra Minister Chhagan Bhujbal has convened a crucial meeting with OBC leaders to address the ongoing demand from the Maratha community for OBC quota reservations. The discourse centers on maintaining the integrity of the OBC quota while navigating the complexities of community needs.
Key Takeaways
- Bhujbal convenes meeting to address Maratha reservation demands.
- OBC leaders oppose extending benefits to Marathas.
- Government emphasizes constitutional frameworks in resolving disputes.
- The Kalelkar and Mandal Commissions did not classify Marathas as backward.
- Efforts are ongoing to ensure community harmony.
Mumbai, Sep 1 (NationPress) Maharashtra Minister and Nationalist Congress Party leader Chhagan Bhujbal convened a meeting of OBC leaders and organizations on Monday to strategize in response to Maratha activist Manoj Jarange-Patil's demand for reservation for the Maratha community under the OBC quota. Jarange-Patil insists that all Marathas in Marathwada should be recognized as Kunbis to access these benefits.
In an interview with IANS, Bhujbal remarked, “During the meeting, attendees will assess the current landscape and determine a future direction. The state has allocated a 10 percent reservation to Marathas, but it cannot extend reservation to the Maratha community from the OBC quota. The OBC community opposes Jarange-Patil’s push for OBC benefits for Marathas.”
Bhujbal, founder of Samata Parishad, referenced two prior rulings from the Bombay High Court, which affirmed that Marathas and Kunbis are separate communities.
“The Kalelkar Commission and subsequently the Mandal Commission did not list Marathas as a backward community. A Chief Minister may implement the commission’s recommendations, but cannot arbitrarily add castes,” Bhujbal criticized NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar for his inaction regarding the Marathas.
He had stated that if the Maratha community persists in their demand for OBC quota reservations, the OBCs would strongly oppose it.
The convening of OBC leaders today follows the National OBC Federation's hunger strike in Nagpur last week, protesting any efforts to extend OBC benefits to the Maratha community.
Previously, state Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified that Marathas cannot receive reservation from the OBC quota, emphasizing that the government seeks a constitutional solution.
“We aim to ensure that both the Maratha and OBC communities avoid conflict. Over the last decade of coalition governance, the Maratha community has been given justice through educational and employment initiatives. We are dedicated to positively responding to Maratha reservation needs,” he stated.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde echoed that Maratha reservations cannot come at the expense of OBCs or other communities, asserting the government’s commitment to legal adherence.
“It is unfeasible to diminish or redirect the OBC quota for the Maratha community. While acknowledging the economic challenges faced by Marathas, the government is focused on ensuring that the reservation provided to them is preserved,” Shinde concluded.
Point of View
It's essential for policy makers to strike a balance between community needs and constitutional frameworks. The government's focus should remain on addressing socio-economic disparities while ensuring that no community feels marginalized. The ongoing discussions highlight the complexities of this issue and the need for a collaborative approach.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the OBC leaders' meeting?
The meeting was convened to strategize regarding the Maratha community's demand for reservation under the OBC quota.
Who is Manoj Jarange-Patil?
Manoj Jarange-Patil is a Maratha activist advocating for the inclusion of Marathas as Kunbis to access OBC benefits.
Has the Maharashtra government granted any reservation to Marathas?
Yes, the Maharashtra government has allocated a 10 percent reservation to the Maratha community.
What is the stance of the OBC community regarding Maratha reservations?
The OBC community opposes the allocation of OBC quota benefits to the Maratha community.
What did Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde say about Maratha reservations?
Eknath Shinde stated that reservations for Marathas cannot be provided by reducing the quota for OBCs or other communities.
