Should OBCs Stand Up for Their Rights Without Leaders? Prakash Ambedkar's Call to Action

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Prakash Ambedkar urges OBCs to take action.
- Self-advocacy is crucial for protecting rights.
- The Maratha reservation claims are deemed misleading.
- OBC and Maratha reservations should be separate.
- Active participation can prevent loss of rights.
Mumbai, Sep 4 (NationPress) Prakash Ambedkar, the leader of the Vanchit Bahujan Aaghadi (VBA), has issued a strong statement regarding the ongoing controversy surrounding Maratha and OBC reservations in Maharashtra. He urged the OBC community to mobilize and initiate a movement to safeguard their rights.
Ambedkar emphasized that the OBC community must independently champion their cause rather than depending on political leaders. He warned that without active participation, even their current rights could be jeopardized.
In relation to the Maratha reservation matter, Ambedkar criticized the government for misleading the Maratha community, asserting that the government's assurances of universal reservation for all Marathas are entirely deceptive. He described the BJP's attempts to resolve this longstanding issue as foolish and misleading.
Ambedkar pointed out, “The Mumbai High Court’s ruling is explicit — it is incorrect and impractical to classify the entire Maratha community as Kunbi. The recent Government Resolution issued contradicts the High Court’s directive. The Supreme Court has also invalidated the Maratha reservation. The BJP is deceiving the public regarding this matter.”
Clarifying his party's position, Ambedkar stated they support reservation for the Maratha community but not at the expense of the OBC quota. He stressed that OBCs must now rise to defend their rights, organizing protests, rallies, and meetings, and exerting pressure on OBC ministers in the cabinet. The Vanchit Bahujan Aaghadi believes that Maratha and OBC reservations must be kept distinct.
He asserted firmly, “OBC reservation is exclusively for the OBC community. The Maratha community deserves its own separate reservation. The government is attempting to sow discord between the two communities.”