Mumbai, September 16 (Daily Kiran) : Maharashtra’s Cultural Affairs Minister, Ashish Shelar, has appealed to Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil to cancel a proposed march to Mumbai during the Ganesh and Gauri festivals. In a press conference on Wednesday, Shelar urged all parties involved to ensure that citizens do not face any inconvenience during the festive season, particularly in Mumbai and Pune.
Shelar emphasized that the Mahayuti government, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, is fully prepared to resolve all pending issues related to Maratha reservations through dialogue. He noted that out of the 14 major demands of the Maratha community, 13 have already been addressed, and a cabinet sub-committee, chaired by Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, is actively working on the remaining issues.
The minister highlighted several measures taken by the government, including the enactment of a special law for Maratha reservations, the implementation of the SEBC quota, and providing opportunities under the EWS category. Additionally, the government is committed to strong legal representation to defend the quota in court.
To streamline the process, the government has simplified the procedure for caste certificates and established a dedicated commission. It has also ensured the appointment of selected candidates while providing scholarships and maintenance allowances for Maratha students equivalent to those offered to the OBC community.
Shelar urged the Maratha community to focus on the facts, stating, “The Mahayuti government has adopted a positive approach towards the issues of the Maratha community. Comprehensive information and reports on the decisions taken so far are available.”
Expressing concern over the statements made against the government during Jarange Patil’s protests, Shelar remarked, “Everyone has the right to express their views and protest for their demands. However, using derogatory language against Chief Minister Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Shinde is unacceptable. While there can be differences in opinion, disrespectful language is not appropriate.”
He also expressed concern for Jarange’s health, advising him to take care of himself. Shelar added, “Manoj Jarange Patil should engage in constructive dialogue regarding his demands. During significant festivals like Ganeshotsav, he should avoid actions that may cause inconvenience to citizens and devotees in Mumbai, Pune, or elsewhere in the state.”
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