Quota Activist Manoj Jarange Criticizes Political Parties Over Maratha Reservation

Activist Manoj Jarange has criticized the BJP-led Mahayuti and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi for not taking the Maratha community’s reservation demands seriously. He accused political leaders of being either cunning or unassertive, and called for Maratha solidarity. Jarange also refuted claims by political rivals that his protest is politically motivated.

Activist Manoj Jarange on Wednesday lashed out at the BJP-led Mahayuti and opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi, accusing them of neglecting the Maratha community's demands for reservation.

Jarange described BJP leaders as 'cunning' and said that MVA leaders lacked assertiveness in their support, accusing both parties of insincerity.

'Both are not serious about providing reservation to the Maratha community,' Jarange declared. He referenced his demand for implementing a draft notification recognizing Kunbis as blood relatives of Marathas to secure OBC category benefits.

Explaining his stance, Jarange responded to NCP chief Sharad Pawar's concerns, blaming NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal for potential unrest in Maharashtra.

He urged Pawar to advocate for Maratha reservations in education and government jobs. Additionally, Jarange accused Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and MLC Pravin Darekar of attempting to divide the Maratha community.

Jarange stated, 'The Maratha community should not fall prey to their trap,' calling for unity and focus on community aspirations.

Meanwhile, Pravin Darekar criticized Jarange's protest as politically driven and self-serving. Jarange also clarified his lack of official alliance with VBA's Prakash Ambedkar and Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatna's Raju Shetti, despite a recent meeting with Shetti in Jalna district.

(With inputs from agencies.)