Manoj Jarange, an activist advocating for Maratha reservation, has declared his intent to travel to Mumbai alone on September 15. This announcement follows the Mumbai Police’s refusal to grant permission for his planned indefinite hunger strike in the city. Jarange, currently on an indefinite fast at Antarwali Sarati village in Maharashtra’s Jalna district, plans to depart for Mumbai at 11 am on Tuesday, despite the police’s decision.

During his address to supporters, Jarange urged members of the Maratha community to refrain from converging in large groups in Mumbai. He alleges that the government denied the protest permit due to its apprehension regarding the Maratha community’s numbers and strength. In light of this, he stated, “I will leave for Mumbai alone on September 15 at 11 am,” emphasising his commitment to continue the protest.

Furthermore, Jarange mentioned that three or four individuals and two ambulances would accompany him on his journey, stressing the importance of maintaining peace in the communities rather than gathering en masse in the state capital.

Police Cites Security Concerns

The rejection of Jarange’s team’s request for an indefinite hunger strike in Mumbai was communicated by the police on September 10. Officials cited concerns regarding security and public order, particularly due to the ongoing Ganeshotsav celebrations. The police also highlighted potential violations of regulations related to public gatherings and protests as factors for the decision.

In his response, Jarange accused Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, of trying to thwart his protest out of fear from the Maratha community’s growing influence. He articulated concerns that any disorder arising from a larger mobilisation could lead to unfounded blame placed upon the Maratha community during the festival period.

Jarange asserted, “Fadnavis’s people will create a disturbance during the Maratha rally and blame the Maratha community. That is why I have decided to go alone. Now, will the government deny permission for my solo march as well?” This statement reflects his frustration with the government’s approach to the ongoing Maratha reservation issue.

Jarange’s Health and Determination

Currently, Jarange is on the 16th day of his indefinite fast, which has reportedly caused his health to decline as he has refused both food and medical treatment. Despite these conditions, he reaffirmed his commitment to persist in his agitation until the concerns of the Maratha community are adequately addressed.

He proclaimed, “The road ahead is full of obstacles, but I will not retreat from the struggle for the community.” Identifying himself as a follower of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, he conveyed his readiness to endure until the end, stating he would “die but not surrender”. However, he did acknowledge that talks with the Maharashtra government could still be an option if the government is willing to engage meaningfully.

Jarange’s primary demand involves the issuance of a Government Resolution (GR), which would allow eligible members of the Maratha community to access reservation benefits similarly offered to the Kunbi community under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, supported by historical records and gazettes.

Context and Previous Agitations

Opposition from OBC groups has emerged regarding this demand, expressing concerns that it may encroach on their share of benefits. Jarange has cautioned political leaders that the Maratha community’s demands must be met, or they risk having their political futures determined in upcoming elections.

This upcoming protest is not Jarange’s first significant demonstration in Mumbai. On August 29 of the previous year, he initiated an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan, which led to disruptions before the government acquiesced to some of his demands, signalling the heightened stakes surrounding the Maratha reservation issue.

With tensions rising once again, Jarange’s decision to proceed to Mumbai for a solo protest underscores his dedication to the cause, despite police opposition and potential legal challenges. His actions may further ignite discussions surrounding Maratha reservations as he seeks to elevate the issue on the political agenda.

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