Jarange’s Demands
Jarange has insisted that Marathas from the Marathwada region be granted Kunbi status, which already qualifies for OBC reservation. His demand also includes extending this recognition to Marathas listed in the Hyderabad and Satara gazettes, followed by recognition in the Aundh and Bombay gazettes. These steps, he argued, are necessary to ensure that the entire Maratha community benefits from quota provisions.
High Court’s Intervention
The Bombay High Court permitted Jarange to continue his protest at Azad Maidan until September 3, even as it directed demonstrators to vacate other parts of Mumbai. A bench led by Acting Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Aarti Sathe observed that disruptions to public life would not be tolerated, warning that violations of court orders would invite strict action. The court has scheduled the next hearing for September 3 at 1 pm.
The court also directed the state to ensure Jarange received medical attention if his health deteriorated during the protest. On Monday, the activist briefly escalated his fast by abstaining from water, though he was later seen sipping water after addressing supporters on Tuesday evening.
Government Response
Three ministers—Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Manikrao Kokate, and Shivendra Raje Bhosle—visited Azad Maidan to engage in talks with the activist. According to Jarange, the government has assured that families of those who died during the agitation will be compensated within a week and that criminal cases filed against protesters will be withdrawn.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has reiterated that his administration will follow the court’s directives while working on legal solutions to the quota demand. Meanwhile, security forces continued efforts to clear demonstrators from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), where protests had brought parts of the city to a standstill for four consecutive days.
What Lies Ahead?
With the two-month deadline set by Jarange, the onus is now on the Maharashtra government to deliver on its assurances. Political analysts suggest that the agitation has once again highlighted the complexity of reservation policies in India, particularly the balance between different caste groups seeking representation.
While Jarange has agreed to suspend his hunger strike, his announcement makes it clear that the Maratha community will intensify its protests if the government fails to issue the promised resolutions. The coming weeks will therefore be crucial for both the state administration and the activist’s movement, as the court continues to monitor developments closely.
