Mumbai, August 31, 2025 — Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil has escalated his ongoing hunger strike at Azad Maidan, declaring that he will stop drinking water starting September 1. This marks a critical phase in the Maratha quota movement, with the activist demanding OBC status for the Maratha community. The protest is drawing national attention and intense political debate, reports The Pulse 24 and The Pulse 24 India.
Key Developments (via Pulse24 India & Thepulse24):
- Third Day, Agitation Strengthens
Jarange has been on a hunger strike since August 29. With thousands of supporters at Azad Maidan, south Mumbai has seen heavy congestion. According to The Pulse 24 Pune, Jarange’s decision to give up water raises serious health concerns while increasing pressure on the Maharashtra government. - Historical Records as Basis for OBC Claim
Jarange cites the 1884 Hyderabad Gazette, which did not classify “Maratha” separately in Marathwada, instead recording them as “Kunbi”—an OBC category. He insists Marathas should be granted OBC certificates based on these historical documents, says Pulse24 India. - Government’s Legal Dilemma
Ministers acknowledged legal hurdles in recognizing Marathas as Kunbis. The government has sought legal opinions, but no consensus was reached. Reports from Thepulse24 highlight fears that any hurried decision could be challenged in court. - Political Reactions
While opposition leaders such as Supriya Sule extended support, protests also saw slogans against her and Sharad Pawar. BJP leaders, meanwhile, suggested Marathas consider the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) quota instead, notes Pulse24.
What It Means — Analysis by The Pulse 24
The next 24 hours are critical. If Manoj Jarange Patil begins a waterless fast, it could force the government to act swiftly. The protest has turned into a flashpoint in Maharashtra politics, and as The Pulse 24 India reports, the issue may redefine caste-based reservation debates in the state.
