Quota Leader Manoj Jarange Delays Election Strategy Announcement Amidst Political Speculations

Quota leader Manoj Jarange has decided not to disclose his strategy for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, fearing ruling parties might exploit it. He also postponed the August 29 meeting where he was expected to announce his decision. Jarange suggested the elections were purposely delayed, with a possibility of President's rule being imposed in the state.

Quota leader Manoj Jarange announced on Wednesday that he would not reveal his strategy for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, fearing that the ruling parties might use this information to their advantage. Consequently, the August 29 meeting, where he planned to make a decision, has been postponed.

Jarange stressed that the schedule for the Maharashtra assembly elections has been intentionally delayed and raised concerns about the potential imposition of President's rule in the state.

"We will declare our strategy only 45 to 60 days ahead of the polls to prevent the government from using our political moves to their advantage," Jarange stated during a press briefing.

Notably, Jarange, who gained public support through his indefinite fasts and rallies advocating for Marathas to be included in the OBC category, has decided to field candidates in the assembly elections. "The ruling parties, especially Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, aim to plan their campaign based on our August 29 decision," Jarange asserted.

He urged the Maratha community to focus on constituency-wise meetings and securing Kunbi certificates. Jarange claimed that the assembly elections, initially due in October, were deliberately delayed due to the government's awareness of growing discontent among various communities including Marathas, Dalits, Dhangars, OBCs, and Muslims.

"We will deny BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP the chance to use our strategy against us by postponing the declaration," Jarange added. He also remarked that should President's rule be imposed, it might not be lifted until December. The Election Commission recently refrained from announcing the dates for Maharashtra assembly elections in conjunction with Haryana and Jammu and Kashmir polls.

(With inputs from agencies.)