February 16, 2024: The issue of reservation for the Maratha community in Maharashtra has been a subject of heated debate for years. The latest development in this controversy comes as Manoj Jarange Patil, a community leader, embarks on an indefinite hunger strike to demand reservation. This comes at a time when the State Backward Classes Commission, chaired by Sandeep Shukre, has submitted a report to the government after conducting a survey to ascertain the backwardness of the Maratha community. The report was presented to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in a recent meeting, attended by all members of the commission.
In an effort to resolve the issue, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed confidence that the government will find a solution that addresses the educational and social backwardness of the Maratha community, while ensuring that no other communities are adversely affected. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the law while making any decisions regarding reservation.
The Chief Minister also clarified that the government’s position is to provide lasting reservation for the Maratha community and called for Manoj Jarang to withdraw his hunger strike, stating that the government is committed to providing justice to all communities.
While the issue of Maratha reservation remains contentious, the government is taking steps to address concerns and ensure fairness and equality for all communities in Maharashtra.
