February 28, 2024: Amid rising tensions in Maharashtra over the Maratha reservation issue, Manoj Jarange Patil has decided to temporarily suspend his hunger strike for Maratha reservation. Jarange has declared that the agitation will be put on hold until March 3. He has urged the Maratha community to refrain from suppressing the movement and to direct their concerns by emailing the Prime Minister and the President about the Sagesoyre Act starting today. Jarange has warned the government of further intensifying the protest if he gets arrested, with Marathas across Maharashtra ready to go on hunger strike.
Crime against Jarange supporter
A young man affiliated with the Jarange movement has been booked in Pune for making threats against the Brahmin community. A video of him making threatening remarks, stating he would eliminate all Brahmins in three minutes, went viral on social media. Vishwajit Deshpande, state president of Parashuram Seva Sangh, lodged a complaint, leading to a case being filed under sections 153A and 506 at Sinhagad Road Police Station.
Explanation by Manoj Jarange
In response to the accusations against him, Manoj Jarange Patil clarified that his remarks were directed towards individuals and not the Brahmin community at large. He accused the government of manipulating the situation and urged for an investigation to ensure justice. Stressing the importance of dialogue, he noted that the Maratha community is focused on their demands for OBC reservation and immediate legislative action. He also emphasized the significance of the Antarwali Mandap as a symbol of Maratha identity, urging against its removal.
Jarange Patil’s plea
Jarange Patil appealed for calm and encouraged the Maratha community to refrain from escalating tensions. He criticized the government’s actions as oppressive and urged the SP of Jalna not to heed the Home Minister’s directives, particularly regarding the Antarwali Mandap. He also expressed concerns about the lasting impact of the 10 percent reservation for the Maratha community and emphasized the importance of securing OBC reservation instead.
Looking forward
As the situation unfolds, Marathas are eagerly awaiting a resolution that addresses their long-standing demands for reservation and justice. Jarange Patil’s decision to pause the hunger strike aims to create space for dialogue and resolution. The coming days will be crucial in determining the path forward for the Maratha community and their aspirations for equitable representation.
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