Maharashtra’s OBC leaders asked to stay calm amid controversy over Maratha reservation
Mumbai, September 4 — Maharashtra’s Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal urged OBC leaders and organizations to hold off on protests like fasts and marches. His appeal comes after the state government decided to grant Kunbi status to Marathas through a government resolution based on the Hyderabad Gazetteer. Bhujbal emphasized the importance of peace, especially during the Ganeshotsav festival.
The senior leader, who skipped a recent cabinet meeting to express his dissatisfaction, said he’s been talking with OBC leaders and legal experts about the new resolution. Bhujbal mentioned he might consider approaching the courts—either the High Court or Supreme Court—to protect the interests of OBC communities if needed.
On social media platform X, Bhujbal explained the situation: “Many backward-class groups are upset about the recent Maharashtra government resolution on Maratha reservation. They’re submitting representations at district offices, organizing marches, and even fasting. This has created some confusion among OBC communities, and we’re working to understand the full impact.”
He added that he has consulted with other OBC leaders and shared relevant documents with legal experts. Once they’ve reviewed everything, they may decide to take legal action to challenge the resolution. Bhujbal mentioned that a detailed assessment is underway, and they plan to approach the courts by next Monday or Tuesday, considering the ongoing Ganesh festival and related public holidays.
Bhujbal also urged OBC leaders and activists to continue submitting their representations, emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest. “Please raise your concerns calmly with government authorities. All protests like fasts or marches should be paused for now. Let’s avoid any clashes or destruction of government documents,” he said.
He reassured that a well-informed decision will be made after studying the government resolution thoroughly. If legal advice suggests that the new GR harms OBC interests, they are ready to seek justice through the judiciary.
The minister’s appeal is significant because many OBC groups believe the government’s move, influenced by pro-Maratha activist Manoj Jarange-Patil, could reduce their reservation benefits. Critics argue that granting Kunbi status to Marathas might affect existing reservation quotas for OBC communities.
However, Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil, who heads a government committee on Maratha reservations, clarified that OBC reservations remain safe. He assured that the government’s decision does not threaten their existing benefits.
Overall, Bhujbal’s call for peace aims to prevent unnecessary unrest while authorities review the legal and social implications of the government’s latest move. The situation remains sensitive as communities seek clarity on their rights and future reservations.
