Mumbai: The Maharashtra Congress chief, Nana Patole, has declared the party's commitment to granting Maratha reservations in the state based on the caste census, should they come to power.
Addressing a press conference, Patole said, "If our government comes to power in Maharashtra, we will provide Maratha reservations on the basis of caste census."
Accusing both the Central and Maharashtra governments of neglecting crucial issues, Patole asserted that resolving these pending matters would be a priority if Congress assumed power. He aligned the party's stance with Rahul Gandhi's call for a caste census, aiming to delve deep into these issues and devise viable solutions.
The leader criticised the Eknath Shinde-led government, citing indifference towards farmers affected by unpredictable weather conditions that resulted in crop losses. Patole highlighted a decline in industrial investment within the state, attributing it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visits, claiming that these visits redirected potential investments to Gujarat, thus impacting Maharashtra's revenue, reported ANI.
Meanwhile, protests led by activist Manoj Jarange from the Maratha community have intensified, demanding reservations in government jobs and education under the OBC category. Addressing a public gathering in Navi Mumbai, Jarange Patil reiterated the community's steadfast determination, stating, "For many years, Marathi people have been fighting for Maratha reservations. We want our rightful reservation, and we will get it."
The agitation gained momentum following activist Manoj Jarange's indefinite hunger strike commencing on October 25. Simultaneously, the issuance of Kunbi certificates, enabling eligibility for reservations in the OBC category, has begun in Maharashtra.