In a distinctive protest for community rights, a Banjara activist has begun an indefinite fast in Jalna, Maharashtra. Vijay Chavan, the activist, is staging his protest by sitting on a charpoy (a traditional Indian bed) tied to a tree in the Ambad Chowfully area. He had initially sought permission to protest at the district collectorate but was denied.
The Banjara community, currently classified under the VJNT category with a 3% reservation quota, is advocating for the implementation of the Hyderabad Gazette. They believe this historical document recognizes them as Scheduled Tribes and seek the restoration of these benefits.
Chavan explained the community’s long-standing demand: “We were recognized as a Scheduled Tribe and received reservation benefits during the period of the erstwhile Hyderabad State. We are seeking the reinstatement of these rights. While the Hyderabad Gazette identifies us as tribes, misinterpretations and a lack of representation post-Mandal have led to our incorrect placement in the VJNT category in Maharashtra.”
This protest follows similar actions by the Banjara community, including large-scale demonstrations across Marathwada in September. The recent government decision to apply the Hyderabad Gazette for the Maratha community has spurred other communities to voice their demands, highlighting the ongoing discussions around caste classifications and historical documents in Maharashtra.