Following a hunger strike by Manoj Jarange Patil in Mumbai’s Azad Maidan, demanding OBC quota reservation for the Maratha community, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has responded to criticism from former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. Thackeray had supported the demand and urged the government to grant reservation to the Maratha community. Shinde questioned why Thackeray didn’t ensure the protection of the existing reservation during his tenure as Chief Minister.
Shinde stated that his government had provided 10% reservation, which the Maratha community continues to benefit from. He highlighted initiatives through ‘Sarathi,’ providing interest-free loans, and hostels, which have aided the community’s progress in UPSC and MPSC exams. He also pointed out that the previous government led by Devendra Fadnavis had also granted reservation, but the Maha Vikas Aghadi government failed to maintain it.
Shinde emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the Maratha community’s economic backwardness is addressed and the granted reservation is sustained. He questioned Thackeray’s actions during his time in office, asking why meetings weren’t convened and why the opposition is now criticizing their efforts. Shinde asserted that those critical of the current administration should clarify their stance and address the lack of action during their own tenure.
Before this, Uddhav Thackeray stated that justice had to be sought in Mumbai. He referenced Fadnavis’s previous comments, implying that he would have granted justice if he were in power. Thackeray also questioned why the Marathas, who were allegedly used and discarded, now don’t receive the reservation that is needed.
