Maratha Quota Activist Threatens Statewide Shutdown Amid Hunger Strike
Manoj Jarange Patil warns of immediate statewide closure if police harm peaceful Maratha protesters during ongoing hunger strike.
Manoj Jarange Patil's hunger strike enters its 10th day, demanding Maratha reservation.
Patil calls for a mass gathering in Jalna, urging peaceful protests.
Maharashtra Minister announces online availability of caste certificate records from September 10.
Manoj Jarange Patil, a prominent activist advocating for Maratha reservations, has entered the 10th day of his indefinite hunger strike as of September 7, 2026. He has issued a stark warning to the Maharashtra government, stating that if any peaceful protester is harmed by police, the state will face a shutdown within ten minutes. Patil is rallying the Maratha community to gather in Antarwali Sarti village for a significant meeting, emphasizing the need for unity and peaceful protest.
The backdrop to this protest is Patil's long-standing demand for the issuance of reservation certificates for the Maratha community, particularly under the Kunbi category. He claims that historical records from the Satara District Gazetteer and the Hyderabad Gazette link Marathas to Kunbis, and he accuses the government of attempting to obstruct the issuance of these certificates. The activist has indicated that a decision regarding a potential march to Mumbai will be made on September 12, urging the community to mobilize swiftly.
In response to the ongoing situation, Maharashtra Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil announced that the complete database of 58 lakh entries for caste certificates will be made available online and displayed in gram panchayats from September 10 to 17. He noted that 3.5 lakh certificates have already been distributed and assured that the law will guide the issuance of certificates to eligible individuals.
The protest has also revealed internal conflicts within the ruling coalition, with Jarange Patil alleging that ministers are exploiting the Maratha reservation issue for political gain. He suggested that police actions against protesters could be orchestrated to undermine Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who is also the Home Minister. Meanwhile, the Maratha community has engaged in road blockades across various districts, intensifying the pressure on the government to address their demands.
As the situation develops, the Maratha community remains vigilant, with leaders like Shiv Sena (UBT) member Ambadas Danve stressing the urgency of fulfilling their demands. He warned that failure to address these issues could lead to heightened tensions among the community. The coming days will be crucial as the community awaits the government's response and the decision on the planned march to Mumbai.
