Maratha Quota Activist Manoj Jarange-Patil Lifts Hunger Strike Following Promises from Maharashtra Government

In a significant development for the Maratha community, activist Manoj Jarange-Patil concluded his indefinite hunger strike after engaging in discussions with representatives from the Maharashtra government. The meeting, which took place on Sunday, brought forth several assurances addressing the long-standing demands of the Maratha community.

Jarange-Patil initiated his hunger strike on Saturday morning in Jalna district, a protest that lasted approximately 15 hours. His decision to cease the strike was influenced by commitments made by the authorities, notably in the presence of Maharashtra minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, who leads the Maratha Reservation Cabinet Sub-Committee, along with Bharatiya Janata Party MLC Prasad Lad.

During an address to his supporters, Jarange-Patil revealed that the government has pledged to expedite the issuance of Kunbi caste certificates. This process is rooted in a database containing 58 lakh records that have already been compiled. To facilitate this, the records will be made accessible at local gram panchayat offices, while the responsibility for issuing the certificates will be managed by the divisional commissioner’s office.

In a show of resolve, Jarange-Patil also demanded that the state government withdraw police cases against Maratha protesters within a month, underscoring the urgency of the community’s grievances. Following the conclusion of his fast, the activist was admitted to a hospital in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar for medical evaluation and care.

The demand for reservations by the Maratha community has been a contentious issue, reigniting public demonstrations in 2023 under Jarange-Patil’s leadership. These protests have sometimes escalated into violence, resulting in tragic incidents such as suicides and the resignation of several legislators. The recent dialogue with government officials marks a critical moment in the ongoing struggle for the community’s rights, and many are hopeful that the promises made will translate into tangible action.

Source: scroll.in