Maharashtra Arakshan: Manoj Jarange Ends Hunger Strike as Govt Accepts Key Demands on Maratha Quota

Mumbai, September 2025 – The long-standing debate over Maharashtra’s reservation policy (Arakshan) took a decisive turn this week when Maratha activist Manoj Jarange-Patil ended his five-day hunger strike after the state government accepted six out of his eight demands. The move marks a significant moment in the fight for Maratha quota rights, though not all concerns have been fully resolved.

Background: The Maratha Arakshan Movement

For decades, the Maratha community has demanded reservation benefits in education and government jobs. The issue gained momentum after court verdicts restricted blanket quotas, making documentation and caste verification essential. Jarange-Patil’s protest in Azad Maidan, Mumbai was the latest in a series of agitations pressing for immediate government action.

What the Government Agreed To

The Maharashtra government announced a Government Resolution (GR) implementing parts of Jarange’s demands. These include:

• Granting Kunbi caste certificates to Marathas with proof from historic Hyderabad Gazette records.
• Withdrawal of protest-related cases by the end of the month.
• Compensation for families who lost members during earlier protests.
• Job opportunities for dependents of deceased agitators.

Officials confirmed that local verification committees will begin processing documents in Marathwada, with expansion planned for Satara and Aundh Gazette records.

Why All Demands Couldn’t Be Met

While the government accepted a majority of the proposals, it refused the demand for a blanket reservation for the entire Maratha community, citing constitutional restrictions and Supreme Court rulings. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified that only individuals with valid documentation can be included under the OBC category.

Mixed Reactions from the Community

Jarange-Patil, while ending his fast, described the outcome as a “partial victory.” Supporters celebrated the recognition of Kunbi status but expressed disappointment that broader quota rights remain out of reach.

Meanwhile, OBC groups have raised objections, warning that allowing Marathas indirect entry into their quota could lead to fresh agitations and legal challenges.

The Road Ahead

• Implementation of the Hyderabad Gazette verification system.
• Monitoring of new caste certificate distribution by committees.
• Continued protests from other communities who fear dilution of their existing quota share.
• Political implications as the issue is expected to influence upcoming state elections.

Conclusion

The latest developments in the Maharashtra Arakshan debate highlight both progress and unresolved challenges. While the government’s decision has calmed protests for now, the future of the Maratha quota movement will depend on legal scrutiny, political negotiations, and the state’s ability to balance the demands of multiple communities.

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