Activist Manoj Jarange on Saturday declared “victory” in the Maratha quota agitation after the Maharashtra government’s cabinet sub-committee accepted most of his key demands, including issuing Kunbi caste certificates to eligible Marathas. The announcement came on the fifth day of his indefinite fast at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan, sparking celebrations among thousands of supporters.
Jarange met the government panel led by minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, along with Shivendrasinh Bhosale, Uday Samant, and Manikrao Kokate. Following the discussions, the sub-committee agreed to implement the Hyderabad Gazette, paving the way for Marathas with Kunbi records to receive caste certificates after due verification.
The activist confirmed that government resolutions (GRs) addressing the quota demands would be issued without delay. “We have won. We will leave Mumbai by 9 pm today if the government issues the GRs,” Jarange told the cheering crowd.
The breakthrough marks a significant moment in the long-standing Maratha quota movement, which has witnessed widespread protests across Maharashtra. With the state now set to formalize its assurances, Jarange’s announcement is being seen as a major achievement for the community’s demand for reservation in education and jobs.
