Dhangar Community Withdraws Support from Shiv Sena Over Quota Demand

The Dhangar community in Maharashtra has withdrawn its support for the Shiv Sena led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The community demands inclusion in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category, as they are currently listed as Nomadic Tribes. If their concerns are ignored, they may field candidates in upcoming assembly elections.

The Dhangar community of Maharashtra has officially withdrawn its support for the Shiv Sena, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, due to neglected demands for inclusion in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category.

Historically shepherds from western Maharashtra and the Marathwada region, the Dhangars have been pushing for ST status but find themselves excluded, as the Centre's database lists 'Dhangad'—not 'Dhangar'—among STs. Currently, they are classified as Nomadic Tribes.

Madhav Bhau Gade, chief of the Yashwant Sena, stated during a press conference that the ongoing neglect from the Chief Minister has led to their disenchantment. With approximately 300,000 Dhangar voters in Thane district, the community is prepared to field its own candidates in the upcoming assembly elections if their demands remain unmet.

(With inputs from agencies.)