Nagpur, 29 May

(HS): Manoj Jarange Patil, who has been fighting for reservation for Maratha community

and issuance of ‘Kunbi’ caste certificates to them, has announced indefinite

hunger strike from May 30. He has been receiving several letters from the

political leaders, including ministers.

Jarange, without

disclosing the contents of the letters, said that the final decision will be

taken depending upon the contents of these letters. He, however, had issued

final warning to the State Government for issuance of the caste certificates to

Marathas.

Maharashtra

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had assured that injustice will not be caused

to the Maratha community. However, time is required to complete the legal

formalities.

OBC MAHASANGH:

Meanwhile, OBC Mahasangh, a national body of Other Backward Classes has opposed

sharing reservation quota of OBCs with the Maratha community.

President of the

Mahasangh Dr Baban Taywade said a major agitation will be launched if OBC

reservation is affected by Maratha reservation. ‘Kunbi’ is a caste included in

the OBC list. Issuing ‘Kunbi’ certificate to Marathas is likely to affect the

OBC quota.

Since the

beginning OBCs have been opposition to Marathas as Kunbis. Originally, Marathas

belong to Kunbi community. The government has directed to issue ‘Kunbi’

certificates to Marathas based on documents of forefathers.

Jarange’s hunger

agitation during the hot summer season is a cause of worry for the government

and the Maratha leaders as well.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Ajay Vasant Mardikar