In recent days, the Maratha quota row in Maharashtra has taken center stage as activists continue to demand a blanket reservation for the Maratha community. The prolonged agitation has escalated, resulting in violent protests that have significantly impacted the state’s political landscape. In this article, we will delve into the key developments and the support extended by various political parties to the government’s stance on providing reservation to the Maratha community.
I. Rising Tensions in Maharashtra
The agitation for Maratha reservation has intensified, with members of the Maratha community resorting to extreme measures. Houses and offices of Maratha community MLAs were set on fire, prompting the need to bolster Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s security detail. Following these incidents, a crucial meeting was convened, leading to heightened security measures for state ministers and their properties.
II. Hunger Strike in Thane
Activists from the Maratha community in Thane have resorted to a hunger strike outside the Thane collector’s office, persistently demanding reservation. This protest has now entered its fourth day, and the determination among the activists remains unwavering.
III. A State in Turmoil
State police sources have warned of the possibility of further escalating tensions in the coming days. It is anticipated that it may take up to a week to defuse the crisis and restore order in the state.
IV. Unity Among Political Parties
In a surprising turn of events, all political parties in Maharashtra have expressed their support for the Eknath Shinde-led government’s commitment to providing reservation for the Maratha community. This unified stance is significant and underscores the gravity of the issue.
V. Activist’s Ultimatum
Prominent Maratha quota activist, Manoj Jarange-Patil, has issued an ultimatum. He declared his intention to stop consuming water if the ‘complete’ quota is not granted to the Maratha community. His dissatisfaction stems from the state cabinet’s decision to grant Kunbi caste certificates to the Marathas in the Marathwada region.
Jarange-Patil has demanded a special session in the state assembly to declare Maratha reservation, warning that he will continue his agitation by forgoing water if his demands are not met.
VI. Support From Various Quarters
Support for the Maratha reservation demand is spreading beyond the community. The workers’ union at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj market yard in Pune has called for a one-day shutdown to express solidarity with Manoj Jarange Patil’s cause.
VII. Unity Across Party Lines
An all-party meeting concluded with a united front in supporting the state government’s efforts to provide reservation to the Maratha community. This unity is crucial in addressing the ongoing crisis.
VIII. Accusations Against Shiv Sena
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut alleged that his party’s MPs and MLAs were not invited to the all-party meeting convened by the Maharashtra government. Such accusations further highlight the complexity of the situation.
IX. Ongoing Arrests and Vandalism
The violent protests have resulted in 99 arrests related to the violence in Beed. Fortunately, the situation is currently under control, with the state’s Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), Sanjay Saxena, assuring the public of the authorities’ commitment to restoring peace.
X. Maratha Quota Protestors’ Grievances
Unlike previous instances, the current wave of protests has witnessed Maratha community members expressing their dissatisfaction with seasoned politicians from the Maratha community. This disconnect between the leadership and the community has fueled the anger among protestors.
XI. Maratha Community’s Political Legacy
The Maratha community has a strong political legacy in Maharashtra, with a significant presence in power and governance. Over the years, it has maintained its influence with a focus on Hindutva and caste-based politics. However, the recent disconnection between the community’s leadership and its members has fueled the ongoing agitation.
XII. The Economic Aspect
The Maratha community is diverse, with some members belonging to the non-establishment class, primarily landless or marginal farmers, often hailing from the Marathwada region—the epicenter of the current agitation. Prominent figures like Manoj Jarange Patil, representing the marginalized within the community, have garnered substantial support from young individuals with no prior social or political backgrounds.
XIII. Conclusion
The Maratha quota row has reached a critical juncture, with activists and community members steadfast in their demand for reservation. The unity displayed by various political parties in supporting this cause is a notable development. As tensions continue to simmer, it remains to be seen how the government responds to these demands and whether a peaceful resolution can be achieved.
XIV. FAQs
- Why are Maratha quota protestors angry at Maratha politicians?
- Protestors are frustrated with Maratha politicians across party lines due to a perceived disconnect between the leadership and the community.
- What is the historical significance of the Maratha community in Maharashtra’s politics?
- The Maratha community has played a pivotal role in Maharashtra’s politics, with numerous chief ministers and political figures hailing from this community.
- What is the economic background of the Maratha community?
- The Maratha community is economically diverse, with some members being landless or marginal farmers, especially in the Marathwada region.
- What are the implications of the all-party support for Maratha reservation?
- The unified support from political parties highlights the gravity of the issue and could impact the government’s decision on the reservation.
- What steps have been taken by the government to address the ongoing crisis?
- The government has increased security measures and taken steps to address the Maratha community’s demands for reservation.
