Maharashtra Backward Class Commission Submits Maratha Community Report to CM Shinde

GG News Bureau
Mumbai, 16th Feb. The Maharashtra State Backward Class Commission has presented its comprehensive report on the social and economic status of the Maratha community to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, marking a pivotal development in the ongoing struggle for Maratha reservations.

Retired Justice Sunil Shukre, the Chairman of the Commission, formally submitted the report in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The report’s findings will be deliberated upon in a forthcoming cabinet meeting during a special assembly session slated for February 20.

Expressing confidence in the report’s thoroughness, CM Shinde stated, “This survey report will be presented in the cabinet meeting, and based on that, the government will take a decision.” He emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring constitutional and legal compliance while addressing the reservations for the Maratha community.

CM Shinde reiterated the government’s dedication to providing lasting reservations for the Maratha community, urging quota activist Manoj Jarnage to end his hunger strike. Shinde assured that the government is actively progressing towards fulfilling the demands outlined by the Shukre Committee report.

The backdrop of these developments is marked by ongoing agitation led by Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil, who commenced his fourth hunger strike on February 10 in Jalna district. Patil’s demands include inclusion of Marathas in the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category for reservations and the enactment of legislation based on the draft notification concerning ‘blood relatives’ of Kunbi Marathas.

The Maratha community’s quest for reservations, particularly under the OBC category, has encountered internal disagreement within the Maharashtra government. Senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal has opposed the idea of reservations under the Kunbi category.

Despite these challenges, Patil persists in his demands, advocating for broader access to education and employment opportunities for the Maratha community.