Pune, October 6 (Daily Kiran) : In Pune, a significant protest is underway, driven by students demanding the resignation of Vivek Bhimnawar, the chairman of the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC), and greater transparency in the examination process. The movement is being led by Rohit Pawar, a legislator from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Joining the cause is Manoj Jarange Patil, a prominent figure in the Maratha reservation movement, who has engaged with students and criticized the government’s inaction.
Jarange Patil warned, “If they do not listen to you, I tell all the leaders sitting here and you as well, we will shut down all of Maharashtra for you. What has happened to them? They have become arrogant.” He emphasized that the injustice faced by students transcends caste lines, stating, “If I were casteist, I wouldn’t be here. The children of farmers from Maharashtra are here, and I come as a farmer’s son, not based on caste.”
He further clarified that the demand for reservation does not equate to abandoning students. Many hardworking parents aspire for their children to become officials, and the government must recognize this sentiment.
Jarange Patil questioned the notion that political support for the students’ movement is merely opportunistic. He asked, “Does the government want no one to stand behind the students and provide them with strength?” He challenged the state government to explain how the previous protests regarding the two-year extension in MPSC were not political, while this one is labeled as such. “Today, children are on hunger strike. What about their lives? What about their concerns? Why politicize everything?” he added.
Speaking to reporters, he insisted that students deserve justice and urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to respond to their needs. As Home Minister, he should prioritize winning the hearts of the students.
Addressing concerns about divisions among student groups, Jarange Patil asserted, “Neither Congress, nor NCP, nor BJP, nor Shiv Sena, nor Mahayuti, nor Mahavikas Aghadi belong to you. Our real heroes are our parents, who work hard to educate us.” He stressed that regardless of where the protests occur, justice must be granted to students. The Chief Minister should promptly address all movements and fulfill their demands to regain their trust, he urged, calling for unity among students.
In response to questions about government ministers and legislators heading towards one protest while the government delegation has not attended another, he stated that the government should engage with students and listen to their perspectives.
Leave a Comment