Reservation Activist Jarange Patil Ends Hunger Strike after Assurance from Maharashtra CM

Manoj Jarange Patil, a Maratha reservation activist who had been on a hunger strike in Antarwali Sarati village, concluded his fast after a phone conversation with Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. During their discussion, Chief Minister Shinde inquired about Patil’s health and assured him that the government was actively working on a solution for the Maratha reservation.

A press release from the Chief Minister’s Office stated, “Chief Minister Shinde told Jarange Patil that a concrete decision will be taken in today’s cabinet regarding giving Kunbi certificates to the Maratha community. Also, it is necessary to resolve the issue of the Maratha reservation legally.”

The release also noted that the government had filed a curative petition in the Supreme Court, which the court had agreed to hear. The government expressed optimism that a legal and lasting solution for Maratha reservations would be reached.

Manoj Jarange Patil expressed his hope for the Maratha reservation following the discussion with Chief Minister Shinde, stating, “Chief Minister Shinde assured me that a decision will be taken in today’s cabinet to give Kunbi certificates to the Maratha community. Also, the government has filed a curative petition in the Supreme Court for Maratha reservation. Therefore, I am hopeful that the Maratha community will get the reservation soon.”

The issue of the Maratha reservation has led to instances of violence in recent days. In Beed, District Collector Dipa Mudhol Munde issued prohibitory orders due to violent incidents related to the Maratha reservation, including the torching of political offices and residences in the city.