Maratha Quota Activist Begins Indefinite Hunger Strike in Mumbai
Activist Manoj Jarange-Patil has launched an indefinite hunger strike at Mumbai's Azad Maidan, demanding reservation for the Maratha community under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. Accompanied by thousands of supporters who marched from Jalna district, Jarange-Patil accused the Maharashtra government of non-cooperation and vowed not to end his protest until the demand is met. The stir has caused significant traffic disruptions in the city and has reignited the contentious reservation debate in the state.
Unpacked:
The Maratha community, despite being historically dominant, argues that many of its members now face economic and social disadvantages. They seek OBC reservation to access benefits in education and government jobs, citing a decline in prosperity among lower and middle class Marathas since the 1980s.
The Maharashtra government has made multiple attempts to grant reservation to Marathas, notably passing a bill in 2024 for a 10% quota. However, these moves have faced legal challenges, with the Supreme Court previously striking down such provisions, citing lack of evidence for backwardness and exceeding reservation caps.
The demand is controversial because OBC groups argue that including Marathas would reduce their own opportunities, given the limited quota available. Several commissions have also classified Marathas as a forward, not backward, caste, intensifying debate over eligibility and fairness.
The protests, including the hunger strike at Azad Maidan, have caused significant traffic disruptions in Mumbai. Large gatherings and marches from other districts have also strained civic resources and reignited public debate on reservation policies.