Thu Sep 04 20:22:20 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The article reports on the ongoing controversy surrounding Maratha reservation in Maharashtra, India. Maratha activist Manoj Jarange-Patil has warned the ruling coalition that the Maratha community will retaliate in upcoming elections if their demand for reservation under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category is not met. This ultimatum comes after Jarange-Patil ended a hunger strike following the government’s issuance of a resolution allowing Marathas with Kunbi lineage to claim OBC benefits. This decision has sparked unrest among OBC groups, who fear their share of reservation will be reduced, and has created fissures within the ruling coalition. Dissent has also surfaced within Jarange-Patil’s own camp, with some accusing the government of deception. The opposition Congress party has criticized the government for creating a divide between Marathas and OBCs and has called for a caste-based census. The government has formed committees to address OBC concerns and ensure justice for both communities, but tensions remain high.
**News Article:**
**Maharashtra Government Faces Backlash Over Maratha Reservation Quota**
**Mumbai, September 05, 2025** – The Maharashtra government is facing mounting pressure and internal divisions over its decision to grant reservation to the Maratha community under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange-Patil has issued a stern warning to the ruling Mahayuti coalition, threatening electoral consequences if the community’s demands are not fully met within a month.
Speaking from his hospital bed, where he is recovering from a recent hunger strike, Jarange-Patil vowed to continue his movement until all eligible Marathas are included in the OBC category, citing the Hyderabad and Satara gazettes. His ultimatum comes after the government issued a resolution enabling Marathas with documented Kunbi lineage to claim OBC benefits.
However, the government’s move has ignited strong opposition from OBC groups, fearing a dilution of their existing quotas. Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal, a prominent OBC figure, boycotted a cabinet meeting in protest and hinted at legal challenges. Even within Jarange-Patil’s own camp, some aides have criticized the government’s resolution as a “sham” and a repackaging of existing procedures.
Meanwhile, the Rashtriya OBC Mahasangh in Nagpur ended its six-day hunger strike after receiving assurances from the government that OBC quotas would remain untouched. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has attempted to quell tensions, stating that only Marathas with valid Kunbi ancestry will be eligible for OBC benefits.
The opposition Congress party has accused the government of deliberately pitting Marathas and OBCs against each other, advocating for a caste-based census as the only permanent solution. They questioned the feasibility of expanding Maratha reservation without impacting OBC quotas.
In response to the escalating tensions, the state government has established two committees to address OBC concerns and ensure a fair outcome for both communities. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule emphasized the government’s commitment to “justice for both communities.” The situation remains volatile, with the stability of the ruling coalition potentially at stake as the state navigates this contentious issue.
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