Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Saturday said the state government is working on a “war footing” to address the Maratha quota issue, as activist Manoj Jarange Patil continues his hunger strike in Mumbai.
“The government is continuously making efforts on a war footing to resolve this issue. Everyone wants a solution, and the same approach is being taken by the Chief Minister as well as both Deputy Chief Ministers,” Pawar said.
He pointed out that a 10-member subcommittee, headed by state minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, has been holding consultations to explore possible solutions. “The cabinet committee has been engaging with all stakeholders… Efforts are ongoing at multiple levels with the aim of ending the agitation,” Pawar added.
Meanwhile, Jarange Patil’s protest entered a critical stage at Azad Maidan, where traffic disruptions were reported near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). The activist, who has been spearheading the Maratha reservation movement, is demanding inclusion of all Marathas under the Kunbi caste category—classified as OBC—to enable access to reservation benefits in education and government jobs.
Addressing his supporters, Patil accused the government of neglecting the community’s demands. “If the government enters our territory, the Marathas will enter theirs… Poor kids have come here without facilities. If you cause us trouble, we will cause you trouble when we come there,” he warned.
Patil, known for his long-standing advocacy on Maratha reservation, has led multiple rallies and hunger strikes over the years. He has urged his supporters to maintain peace while pressing the government to take decisive action, especially ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections in 2024.
