Maharashtra's Kunbi Certificate Controversy: Balancing OBC and Maratha Interests

Maharashtra minister Chandrakant Patil announced that ''sage soyare'' of those identified as Kunbis will receive certificates, a move opposed by some OBC leaders. The government plans an all-party meeting to resolve the issue. Activist Manoj Jarange demands Kunbi certificates for all Marathas for quota benefits. Patil urges understanding across communities.

Maharashtra minister Chandrakant Patil announced that the ''sage soyare'' (blood relatives) of individuals identified as Kunbis will also receive certificates, a decision that has drawn opposition from some OBC leaders. Patil emphasized the need for both OBC and Maratha communities to understand that this notification aims to protect everyone's interests.

In an effort to address the contentious issue, the government has scheduled an all-party meeting for Monday. The controversy has been fueled by activist Manoj Jarange, who recently suspended his indefinite fast, demanding the implementation of a draft notification that would recognize Kunbis as ''sage soyare'' of the Maratha community, making them eligible for quota benefits.

The proposal has met resistance from OBC activists Laxman Hake and Navnath Waghmare, who held a ten-day hunger strike opposing the draft notification and fearing dilution of the OBC quota. Discussions have been ongoing between Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CMs Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis, and representatives from both communities to find a resolution.

(With inputs from agencies.)