Maratha Quota Protests Intensify as Jarange begins Fast, Maharashtra Government Calls Emergency Session
Mumbai: Activist Manoj Jarange began an indefinite fast on Tuesday, refusing even water, to escalate pressure on the Maharashtra government to grant Maratha community members reservations in jobs and education.This escalation comes as the state government convenes a special session of the legislature and an all-party meeting to address the long-standing and politically sensitive Maratha reservation issue. Simultaneously, Mumbai Police have issued a traffic advisory anticipating disruptions due to planned protests.
The Maratha community, a significant social and political force in Maharashtra, has been demanding increased reservation quotas, arguing they are educationally and economically backward. Previous protests have highlighted the community’s frustration with existing reservation policies and a perceived lack of government action. The current agitation centers on demands for a complete solution, including a constitutional amendment to exceed the 52% reservation ceiling set by the Supreme Court – a proposal that has drawn criticism from some quarters.
Here are the key developments:
Jarange’s Fast: Manoj Jarange commenced his indefinite fast, refusing even water, intensifying the pressure on the state government.
government Response: The Maharashtra government has called a special session of the state legislature and an all-party meeting to find a resolution to the Maratha reservation issue.
Political Fallout: BJP leaders have criticized NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar after he suggested a constitutional amendment may be necessary. NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal is holding a meeting of OBC leaders opposing any dilution of existing OBC quotas.
Media Concerns: The TV Journalists Association has lodged a complaint with Jarange regarding alleged misbehavior towards women reporters by some protestors at Azad Maidan, threatening a media boycott if the incidents continue.
* Traffic Advisory: Mumbai Police have issued a traffic advisory anticipating disruptions due to planned protests, urging citizens to plan their commutes accordingly.