Will Maha Minister Chhagan Bhujbal Lead Protests Against Maratha Inclusion in OBC?
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Synopsis
Chhagan Bhujbal, Maharashtra Minister, asserts that the Maratha community should not be classified as OBCs, warning of a massive protest if they are. His stance reflects the longstanding debate over caste-based reservations in Maharashtra, emphasizing the unique rights of OBCs. As tensions rise, the future of the Maratha reservation issue hangs in the balance.
Key Takeaways
- Chhagan Bhujbal's strong opposition to Maratha inclusion in the OBC category.
- Warning of mass protests from OBC communities if demands are not met.
- Reference to the Bombay High Court ruling on the Maratha community's status.
- Plans for hunger strikes and processions to advocate for OBC rights.
- Call for peaceful protests and respect for women in activism.
Mumbai, Sep 1 (NationPress) - Maharashtra Minister and prominent Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) figure Chhagan Bhujbal stated on Monday that the Maratha community should not receive reservation under the Other Backward Class (OBC) quota. He cautioned that if this occurs, OBC members could flood Mumbai to protest.
"With 374 castes within the OBC, our sole request is for the Maratha community to remain outside the OBC classification. I met with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today, along with both Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, to discuss the Supreme Court’s ruling," Minister Bhujbal remarked.
He made these comments after leading a meeting with various organizations concerning the situation created by pro-Maratha quota advocate Manoj Jarange-Patil, who has initiated an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan in Mumbai, advocating for the Maratha community's inclusion in the OBC quota.
Minister Bhujbal emphasized that he speaks as an OBC leader, elected as a legislator and currently serving as a Cabinet Minister representing the OBC community.
"If they (Jarange-Patil) can protest as Marathas, I too can mobilize as an OBC to safeguard our rights," he asserted.
"The Bombay High Court previously stated it is incorrect to claim that Marathas and Kunbis are identical, noting that the Maratha community does not fall under the category of backward classes. Hence, the Maratha community should not be classified as OBC nor receive reservations from the OBC quota. The 50% reservation is meant for socially backward classes, which the Maratha community does not qualify as. OBCs will not share this quota with anyone. No leader, whether Sharad Pawar or Devendra Fadnavis, can introduce a new caste into the OBC, SC, or ST categories. If OBCs face injustice, millions will react and converge in Mumbai," warned Minister Bhujbal.
He further added, "My intention is not to blame any Chief Minister or government but to adhere to the rules and laws. If the government remains obstinate, it must consider the legal provisions. We have resolved to initiate hunger strikes and processions from district to district, reaching every taluka. If OBCs experience injustice, we will persist until we gather in Mumbai."
Regarding the actions of a group of Maratha activists who attempted to surround NCP-SP Working President and Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule, along with the harassment of female journalists, Minister Bhujbal stated that protests should be conducted peacefully and democratically.
"I learned that female journalists faced harassment yesterday. MP Supriya Sule was also obstructed while attempting to advise Jarange-Patil on his health. This treatment is unacceptable for women MPs and journalists," he concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the issue of caste-based reservations with careful consideration of both historical injustices and current socio-political dynamics. The Maratha community's demand for inclusion in the OBC category raises important questions about equity and representation. While Minister Bhujbal's stance reflects the concerns of the OBC community, it is essential to engage in constructive dialogue to find a solution that respects the rights of all communities involved.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the stance of Chhagan Bhujbal regarding Maratha reservations?
Chhagan Bhujbal opposes the inclusion of the Maratha community in the OBC category, warning of potential protests from OBC members.
What legal backing does Bhujbal reference?
He references a previous ruling by the Bombay High Court stating that the Maratha community is not considered backward.
What actions does Bhujbal plan if OBC rights are threatened?
He plans to initiate hunger strikes and organize protests across districts to protect OBC rights.
How does Bhujbal view the treatment of women in protests?
He condemns the harassment of women journalists and insists that protests should be peaceful and democratic.
How many castes are recognized in the OBC category according to Bhujbal?
There are 374 castes recognized within the OBC category as stated by Bhujbal.
