Fadnavis Responds to Maratha Quota Allegations: 'Will Quit if Proven Hindrance'

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has countered accusations by Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange, asserting he will quit politics if Chief Minister Eknath Shinde states he is hindering the reservation process. Jarange blames Fadnavis for police actions against Maratha activists and their ongoing struggle for community reservations.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has strongly countered allegations by Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange, declaring he would resign from politics should Chief Minister Eknath Shinde affirm that he obstructs the Maratha reservation process.

Jarange, a vehement critic of Fadnavis, has persistently accused the senior BJP leader of being the principal barrier to the Maratha community's quest for reservations.

Fadnavis, addressing a press conference, remarked sarcastically regarding Jarange's 'special affection' for him and stated, 'If Chief Minister Eknath Shinde asserts that my presence is a hindrance to reaching a decision concerning the Maratha quota, I shall tender my resignation and withdraw from politics.' He emphasized that critical decisions benefiting the Maratha community were made either during his term or under CM Shinde's tenure, criticizing the deliberate creation of a contrary narrative.

Jarange also holds Fadnavis, the state's home minister, accountable for the police lathicharge on Maratha quota activists in Antarwali Sarati, Jalna, in August last year.

(With inputs from agencies.)