Mumbai, 01 Sep (HS): Manoj Jarange-Patil, who has

been on a hunger strike at Azad Maidan, Mumbai, has been advised by medical

practitioners to consume at least water. The blood sugar level of Jarange has

come down to around 70. Jarange, announced that he is leaving consumption of

water on Monday as a part of his hunger strike. A team from J J Hospital is

monitoring his health. Jarange has demanded a reservation for the Maratha

Community under the OBC category.

The doctors have opined that the sugar level may go

down further if Jarange refuses to connsume water. Jarange, however, said that

he would either lead a victory march if his demand is conceded, or would be

taken in the funeral procession.

A meeting under the chairmanship of Chief Minister

Devendra Fadnavis is being conducted to discuss the issue. Deputy CMs Eknath

Shinde and Ajit Pawar, Chairman of the Sub-Committee on Reservation

Radhakrishna Patil, and Miinister Girish Mahajar are present.

A large number of Maratha people from across the

state have reached Mumbai to support Jarange. Food items, biscuits, water and

other essentials are being supplied to the supporters. At the same time, security at the Mantralaya has been beefed up to prevent any untoward

incident.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Ajay Vasant Mardikar