Does the Maha government need to assure no Maratha reservation from our OBC quota?
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Synopsis
The ongoing tension over reservations in Maharashtra has sparked an indefinite hunger strike by OBC activists in Nagpur, amid demands for assurances from the government. Will the state provide clarity on this contentious issue? This article explores the unfolding drama in Maharashtra's reservation politics.
Key Takeaways
- Indefinite hunger strike launched by OBC activists in Nagpur.
- The demand for written assurance regarding OBC reservation integrity.
- Chief Minister denies Maratha reservations from OBC quota.
- OBC Federation firmly opposes Maratha reservations.
- Government aims to support Maratha community without harming OBC interests.
Nagpur, Aug 30 (NationPress) In light of pro-Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange-Patil’s declaration to remain in Mumbai until the Maharashtra government guarantees reservation for the Maratha community from the OBC quota, activists from the community initiated an indefinite chain hunger strike in Nagpur, the stronghold of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
The National President of the OBC Federation, Babanrao Tayawade, who commenced the hunger strike, stated that OBCs will resist the pressure exerted by Jarange-Patil concerning the reservation matter.
“The National OBC Federation firmly believes that the Maratha community should not receive any reservation under the OBC framework. Additionally, the Maratha community should not be issued a Kunbi certificate. The state government must provide a written assurance that our OBC reservations will remain intact despite the Maratha reservation process,” Tayawade emphasized.
He continued, “The chain hunger strike aims to safeguard OBC reservations and will persist until the state government provides a written guarantee that OBC reservations will not be compromised while deliberating on Maratha reservations. The forthcoming solutions from the state government will be closely monitored.”
Previously, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified that reservations for the Maratha community would not be drawn from the OBC quota.
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde also mentioned that the Maratha community cannot be granted reservation by diminishing the OBC or other community quotas, emphasizing the government’s responsibility to operate within legal boundaries.
The government is also committed to extending the benefits currently available to the OBC community to the Maratha community, operating within the established norms.
“It is unfeasible to reduce or divert the OBC quota to benefit the Maratha community. While the Maratha community is economically disadvantaged, the government aims to uphold the reservation provided to them,” remarked Dy CM Shinde.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the delicate balance of social justice in Maharashtra's reservation politics. The ongoing hunger strike highlights the complexities of addressing community needs without compromising the rights of others. The government’s response will be pivotal in shaping the future of reservation policies in the state.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue regarding reservations in Maharashtra?
The central issue revolves around the demand for Maratha community reservations from the OBC quota, which has led to significant protests and a hunger strike by OBC activists.
What assurance do OBC activists want from the government?
OBC activists are demanding a written guarantee from the government ensuring that their reservation will not be affected by the introduction of Maratha reservations.
Who is leading the hunger strike in Nagpur?
The hunger strike in Nagpur is being led by Babanrao Tayawade, the National President of the OBC Federation.
What has the Chief Minister stated about Maratha reservations?
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has stated that reservations for the Maratha community will not be taken from the OBC quota.
What is the government's stance on providing benefits to the Maratha community?
The government is committed to ensuring that the Maratha community receives benefits while also maintaining the integrity of OBC reservations.
