The Maharashtra government included the Maratha community in the 'Kunbi' caste and granted them OBC reservation. Minister Chhagan Bhujbal opposed the decision. Protesters were satisfied. The Cabinet sub-committee is trying to maintain OBC balance.
Mumbai News: The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step by fulfilling the long-standing demand for reservation by the Maratha community. Under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Maratha community members have been granted the status of 'Kunbi' caste through the 'Hyderabad Gazette'.
The Kunbi caste is already included in the OBC (Other Backward Classes) category. With this decision, members of the Maratha community will be able to avail reservation benefits in education and employment. This decision is being viewed as historic and a fulfillment of a long-standing demand by the community.
Disagreement in the Cabinet and Chhagan Bhujbal's Opposition
However, this decision has also exposed disagreements within the Maharashtra government. State's senior minister and OBC community leader, Chhagan Bhujbal, has openly opposed the Maratha reservation decision. He distanced himself from the cabinet meeting and informed Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar that including the Maratha community in OBC could disrupt the reservation balance.
Chhagan Bhujbal stated that he was not fully aware of this decision and expressed surprise and displeasure at the government's move. He also said that he would consult with lawyers on this matter on Monday and, if necessary, would fight a legal battle in court.
Concerns of the OBC Community
Following the Maratha reservation decision, the Maharashtra cabinet has decided to form a six-member Cabinet sub-committee to mitigate the anger of the OBC community. This committee will include two ministers from each party. The objective of this committee is to address the concerns of the OBC community and ensure that the Maratha reservation does not lead to discontent within the existing OBC category. The government has clarified that all relevant aspects will be considered through this sub-committee, and social balance will be maintained.
Manoj Jarange's Fast
Manoj Jarange, a prominent leader of the Maratha movement, had started an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan in South Mumbai demanding reservation for the Maratha community. His main demand was for the Maratha society to be recognized as 'Kunbi' caste. Following the government's decision, Manoj Jarange ended his fast.
