Cabinet Sub-Committee Takes Steps to Resolve the OBC Reservation Demand
What’s Unfolding
- A cabinet sub‑committee met Maratha quota protest leader Manoj Jarange Patil at the Azad Maidan protest site in Mumbai for the first direct dialogue between the state government and the agitation camp. Ministers present included Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Manikrao Kokate, and Shivendra Raje Bhosale.
- Jarange, who is on a hunger strike demanding reservation for Marathas under the OBC category, said the committee agreed to review the Hyderabad Gazetteer’s records, which he believes historically identifies Marathas in Marathwada as Kunbis—a recognized OBC group.
Key Developments & Stakes
- Historical Validation for OBC Inclusion
Jarange contends that since Marathwada was part of pre‑1990 Hyderabad State, the Gazetteer’s documentation holds legal and historical importance for OBC inclusion. - Proposed Next Steps
The government will now circulate its proposals among the protestors. If accepted, further action will follow. - Jarange’s Bold Declaration
Addressing his supporters after the meeting, Jarange declared:
“We won with your strength. Today I understood the power of the poor.”
Mounting Pressure & Legal Frictions
- Bombay High Court’s Ultimatum
The High Court warned of contempt action if the streets near Azad Maidan were not cleared by 3 pm. It directed Jarange’s supporters to vacate the area and cautioned that they had no right to block public spaces. - Continuation of Sit-In and Hunger Strike
Jarange refused to relent, intensifying his protest by vowing to stop drinking water. He demanded issuance of an official Gazette Resolution (GR) using existing records.
Why This Matters
| Aspect | Significance |
|---|---|
| Historical Evidence | Using the Hyderabad Gazetteer positions the demand as restoring identity, not political gain. |
| Legal Path | The government’s legal review may pave a constitutionally valid resolution. |
| Crisis Management | Balances public disruption against protest rights ahead of civic elections. |
What began as a tense standoff may now be heading toward structured discussion. As the government weighs historical records and legal advice, the coming days could redefine the Maratha reservation movement’s trajectory—with far-reaching implications across Maharashtra’s socio-political landscape.
Related News : Mumbai Police Serve Notice to Manoj Jarange Patil, Order Eviction from Azad Maidan Amid Ongoing Maratha Quota Protest
