Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, September 11 (Daily Kiran) : Manoj Jarange Patil, a key leader of the Maratha reservation movement, has announced plans to march to Mumbai if the Maharashtra government fails to address their demands. Patil emphasized the need to rectify perceived shortcomings in the reservation system and to revisit the issue of certification. He is gearing up to intensify the movement.
A meeting with supporters is scheduled for September 12 at noon, where they will outline the movement’s next steps. Patil confirmed that an application for permission to protest at Azad Maidan in Mumbai has been submitted, expressing confidence that the government will grant approval.
Criticizing the government, he stated, “You cannot speak without holding your nose.” He made it clear that the protesters are prepared to head to Mumbai.
Patil remarked, “If we have requested permission according to the law, it is the government’s responsibility to grant it. The Home Department should approve it, and the government must adhere to the rules. However, the government sees itself above everyone, even the courts, and is violating the Constitution. We will receive permission, and a hunger strike will take place at Azad Maidan.”
He advised supporters against bringing vehicles to the protest site, suggesting that those traveling from afar arrive at night, while locals should come in the morning.
Meanwhile, government representatives claim that they have addressed 12 out of the 15 demands raised by Patil. They reiterated that their doors are always open for dialogue.
As the movement gains momentum, Abhijit Dipke, leader of the Cockroach Public Party, met with Patil, urging him to end his hunger strike due to health concerns. He also warned the government against any forceful actions against Patil.
Dipke stressed the need for social change in Maharashtra, criticizing the government for failing to provide quality education and job opportunities, which he believes has led to Patil’s drastic measures. He pointed out that while the government finds time to meet with comedians and social media influencers, it neglects to engage with a leader who has been on hunger strike for 14 days for community interests.
Using social activist Sonam Wangchuk as an example, Dipke cautioned the government against forcibly removing Patil, stating, “This is Maharashtra. If the government attempts to forcibly remove Manoj Jarange Patil, people from all corners of the state will converge at Antarwali Sarati, and the government will face the consequences.”
Support for Patil’s movement continues to grow across various districts in Marathwada. As preparations for the proposed march to Mumbai unfold, demonstrations have erupted in several locations.
Under the banner of the Sakal Maratha Samaj, protesters staged a two-hour blockade on the Latur-Barshi road in the Chincholirawadi area. They vocally opposed the government, while in the Nilanga taluka of Nitur, protesters blocked the Latur-Jahirabad highway by setting tires ablaze.
In response, the government has begun releasing details about the number of certificates issued across different districts.
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