In a strong statement, quota activist Manoj Jarange warned Maharashtra minister Pankaja Munde and her cousin Dhananjay Munde against crossing his path. Jarange asserted that the Maratha community would be instrumental in ending their political careers if they heed the advice of Chhagan Bhujbal and involve themselves in matters concerning Jarange.
This warning comes in response to Pankaja Munde’s comments made on Thursday, where she stated that the reservation for the Maratha community should not come at the expense of the Other Backward Classes (OBCs), as the latter are already struggling. Jarange directly addressed both Munde cousins, urging them to exercise caution and wisdom, emphasizing that there is still time to reconsider their stance.
Jarange’s remarks also touched upon the recent government resolution (GR) implemented on September 2, which allows eligible Marathas to obtain Kunbi caste certificates. This GR, which facilitates Marathas’ access to OBC quotas in education and government jobs, was issued following Jarange’s five-day hunger strike in Mumbai. However, the decision has faced opposition from OBC leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal, leading to tensions regarding the potential inclusion of Marathas within the OBC category.
Further, Jarange criticized Dhananjay Munde, referencing his past resignation as a minister due to an associate’s involvement in a murder case, and stated, “Those who have blood on their hands should not speak about my community.” He added that even Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar would not be spared due to Dhananjay Munde’s association. Jarange vowed that their candidates would be defeated in elections, regardless of their community affiliation, if they challenge the GR. He concluded by suggesting that if the GR is challenged, Maratha community members should demand the cancellation of the 1994 GR that granted reservation to various communities under the OBC category. Jarange also pledged to write to the government seeking the cancellation of the additional 2% OBC quota beyond the 50% ceiling and proposed excluding communities that have progressed from reservation benefits.