Is CM Fadnavis Playing Politics? Jarange-Patil Calls for Peaceful Action

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Manoj Jarange-Patil is leading a protest for Maratha reservation.
- He has accused Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis of political manipulation.
- The protest aims to remain peaceful and focused on the demand for reservation.
- Jarange-Patil highlights issues caused by the civic administration during the protest.
- Supporters are urged to stay calm and avoid provocations.
Mumbai, Aug 30 (NationPress) Activist for the Maratha quota, Manoj Jarange-Patil, accused Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday of engaging in political tactics, alleging that he aimed for the police to use lathi charge against demonstrators congregating in and around Azad Maidan.
Jarange-Patil, who has initiated a hunger strike demanding reservation for the Maratha community from the OBC quota that complies with legal standards, stated, “Do not confine the Marathas; you (CM Fadnavis and the state government) possess a chance to address this situation. Take action. If you turn against the protesters, it will create complications for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.”
This remark emerged on the second day of his protest, as police extended permission until Saturday. He has made it clear that he will not depart from Mumbai until the government enacts reservation for the Maratha community. The timing of his comments coincides with Amit Shah's visit to Mumbai for Ganeshotsav Mandals.
“We are not pursuing politics; we demand reservation. The Chief Minister is opting for political maneuvers instead of resolving the matter. I appeal to everyone to utilize the designated parking spaces. Exercise patience; we will wait. Marathi-speaking individuals have traveled from all over the state to Mumbai, and they will not engage in any misconduct. I want to assure my children that they will not do anything wrong,” expressed Jarange-Patil.
“Our objective is to conduct this movement in a peaceful manner and achieve success. I am uncertain of the intentions behind those who are instigating issues. However, we must keep our movement peaceful for now. Let’s see if the government grants reservation. Everyone should remain calm,” he added.
He accused the civic administration of cutting off water supplies and closing toilets and shops in the vicinity of the protest site, stating, “Since the BMC is under an administrator, ultimate authority rests with the Chief Minister. Even if the BMC Commissioner retires tomorrow, we will not excuse him for denying our children access to water. After listening to the Chief Minister, you halted the water supply and shut down essential facilities. I also urge the police not to incite the youth or impose unnecessary pressures on them.”
Jarange-Patil cautioned the government and the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) against instructing hotels and restaurants to cease operations, asserting that such actions will not be tolerated.