Will OBC Groups Protest and Sue Maharashtra Government Over Kunbi Status for Marathas?
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Synopsis
OBC organizations in Maharashtra are gearing up for a significant protest against the government's decision to grant Kunbi status to Marathas. With a public rally planned in Nagpur and legal action on the horizon, tensions are rising as they fight for their rights. What are the implications of this decision?
Key Takeaways
- OBC organizations are mobilizing against the government's decision to grant Kunbi status to Marathas.
- A public rally is scheduled for the first week of October in Nagpur.
- Concerns have been raised about the impact on existing OBC communities.
- The movement includes leaders from various OBC and VJNT organizations.
- Legal action is being prepared alongside public protests.
Mumbai, Sep 8 (NationPress) A coalition of various OBC organizations has declared plans to stage a protest and seek legal action against the Maharashtra government for its recent decision to issue a Government Resolution (GR). This GR relates to the implementation of the Hyderabad Gazette, which could potentially allow the Maratha community to gain Kunbi (OBC) status.
The OBC groups have organized a public rally set to take place in Nagpur during the first week of October.
In the coming days, similar protests are expected to unfold across all districts.
Representatives from approximately 13 OBC and Vimukta Jati and Nomadic Tribes (VJNT) organizations attended a meeting on Monday, convened by Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader Vijay Wadettiwar in Mumbai.
A preliminary meeting was previously held on September 6 in Nagpur.
Wadettiwar stated, "Reservation is a right for all. While we support reservations for those with valid claims, we oppose blanket reservations without thorough examination. The September 2 GR issued by the state government jeopardizes the interests of the OBCs, and we are prepared to fight both in court and on the streets for our rights."
Among the organizations involved in the meeting were Agari Samaj, Dhangar Samaj, Akhil Bharatiya Mali Mahasangh, Bara Balutedar Sanghatna, Balutedar Federation, Maharashtra Prantik Teli Samaj, OBC Sangharsh Samiti, OBC VJNT Bahujan Parishad, OBC Arakshan Bachao Sangharsh Samiti, All Indian Banjara Seva Sangh, Mahatma Phule Yuva Manch, Maharashtra Vadar Samaj, and Koli Samaj.
The CLP leader accused the state government of intentionally instigating conflict between Marathas and OBCs to distract from pressing issues such as agrarian crises, unemployment, the state's financial decline, and the rising number of farmer and contractor suicides.
During the meeting, held under the banner of 'Sakal OBC Samaj' (entire OBC community), it was resolved to pursue a legal battle as well.
Wadettiwar commented, "There will be district-focused meetings among OBC organizations to strategize for the impending struggle. We harbor no animosity towards anyone; our fight is for the rights of the OBCs."
Chhagan Bhujbal, a senior OBC leader and Maharashtra Minister from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), has also voiced his concerns regarding the state government's GR, announcing plans to file a petition in both the Supreme Court and High Court to safeguard OBC interests.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the multifaceted dynamics at play in Maharashtra. The ongoing struggle for OBC rights against the backdrop of governmental policies raises essential questions about equity and representation. While the OBC organizations pursue their claims, it is vital to consider the broader implications for social harmony and justice within the region.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the protest by OBC organizations?
OBC organizations are protesting against the Maharashtra government's decision to grant Kunbi status to the Maratha community, which they believe undermines the interests of existing OBC communities.
When and where will the protest take place?
The protest is scheduled for the first week of October in Nagpur, with plans for similar actions across various districts.
What are the concerns raised by the OBC leaders?
OBC leaders express that the government's resolution may negatively impact their community's interests and that reservations should be based on merit, not blanket policies.
What actions are being planned by the OBC organizations?
OBC organizations are planning public rallies and legal action to contest the government's decision and advocate for their rights.
Who are some of the key leaders involved in this movement?
Key leaders include Vijay Wadettiwar from the Congress Legislative Party and Chhagan Bhujbal from the Nationalist Congress Party.
