Will CM Fadnavis Remain Within Constitutional Limits Despite Criticism?

Mumbai, Sep 1 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized on Monday that he will remain steadfast within the constitutional framework established by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, asserting that any reservations made beyond legal limits would not endure. His remarks are in response to the intensified protests led by Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange-Patil, who is demanding the inclusion of the Maratha community within the OBC quota. “Regardless of the criticism I face, I am unable to act outside the interests of society as outlined in Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's Constitution. The call for Marathas to be recognized under the OBC category has already been addressed by both the Supreme Court and High Court,” he stated.

In a critique directed at Jarange-Patil, he remarked, “If I could understand his mindset, the protests at Azad Maidan would have concluded, and the reservation matter would have been resolved by now.”

Responding to Jarange-Patil's allegations, CM Fadnavis stated, “I am no stranger to mockery and insults; they do not impact me. Ultimately, our contributions are documented in history and remembered by the populace. What truly matters is our actions.” He further noted that the MahaYuti administration has consistently prioritized the welfare of the Maratha community.

“During my tenure and that of Eknath Shinde as Chief Minister, the Maratha community has benefitted from the reservations granted. We are open to considering the demands put forth by Jarange-Patil today,” he added.

Addressing the commotion that occurred when Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar) MP Supriya Sule visited Azad Maidan, CM Fadnavis remarked that such behavior was inappropriate. “If a leader attends, they should be treated with respect. Disruptive actions like chanting slogans or throwing bottles yield no positive results. We are striving to resolve the reservation issue through legal avenues,” he commented.

CM Fadnavis affirmed, “Our government is receptive to the demands made by Jarange-Patil. Any accepted demand must adhere to legal frameworks. While he seeks to include Marathas in the OBC category, we must consider the broader social implications. Therefore, we may need to present our case in court. Decisions made outside legal parameters will not hold. While it may please the populace, it ultimately deceives them.”

The Chief Minister disclosed that a cabinet sub-committee led by Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil is actively discussing solutions to Jarange-Patil's demands. “We are consulting with legal advisors and reviewing previous court decisions to address these concerns,” he added. He reiterated that progress can only be achieved through dialogue, not rigidity.

“The government operates within the law. We will tackle all issues through legal mechanisms and utilize every available legal provision to find solutions,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena leader Amit Thackeray urged his party members to support the Maratha protesters in Mumbai. “Thousands of Maratha brothers have gathered here. The reservation matter lies with the government, but no Maratha brother should feel isolated. Every MNS member must ensure they receive food, water, shelter, safety, and medical assistance as needed,” he emphasized.