Activist Manoj Jarange Challenges CM Shinde on Maratha Quota Delay

Activist Manoj Jarange accused Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of delaying the process to grant Maratha reservations under the OBC category. As his hunger strike entered its fourth day, Jarange demanded implementation of draft notifications and issuance of Kunbi certificates to Marathas, making them eligible for job and education quotas.

Activist Manoj Jarange on Tuesday accused Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of deliberately delaying the reservation process for the Maratha community under the OBC category as Jarange's indefinite fast entered its fourth day.

Jarange began his latest hunger strike at Antarwali Sarti village in Jalna district on July 20. His demands include the implementation of a draft notification recognizing Kunbis as blood relatives of Marathas and granting the latter reservation under the OBC category.

Government health officer Dr. Swapnil Rathod examined Jarange on the fourth day and noted the need for medical treatment due to dehydration, but the activist refused. Jarange criticized CM Shinde for delaying the reservation process, suggesting temporary quota options until demands are met.