Maratha Quota Won't Affect OBCs Affirms Fadnavis
In the heart of Maharashtra, a contentious issue has arisen concerning the inclusion of the Maratha community in the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. This move, which allows Marathas from the Marathwada region to obtain Kunbi caste certificates after proving their Kunbi lineage through records in the Hyderabad Gazette, has sparked a significant response from various communities and leaders.
The Rashtriya OBC Mahasangh, a prominent organisation representing OBC communities, has strongly opposed the issuance of Kunbi certificates to Marathas. This opposition led to a chain hunger strike at Samvidhan Chowk in Nagpur, which was launched on August 30 and ended on August 30 after a meeting with OBC Welfare Minister Atul Save.
The controversy has triggered backlash from OBC leaders and communities who fear dilution of their reservation benefits. Notably, Chhagan Bhujbal, an OBC leader and cabinet minister, skipped a recent cabinet meeting where a government resolution (GR) discussing the Maratha demands was discussed. As a result, security has been increased at his residence following his vocal opposition to including Marathas in the OBC category.
Devendra Fadnavis, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, has clarified that no blanket reservation has been granted to the Maratha community under the OBC category. He has assured OBC leaders that the GRs regarding Kunbi caste certificates for Marathas are based on documentary evidence from the Hyderabad Gazette. The government is making efforts to clear all doubts raised by OBC leaders regarding the GRs.
Revenue Minister Bawankule has reiterated the government's commitment to maintaining harmony between the Maratha and OBC communities. Meanwhile, the state government has approved six of the eight demands raised by Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange, including the implementation of the Hyderabad Gazette.
It is essential to note that only those Marathas from the Marathwada region who can prove their Kunbi lineage through records in the Hyderabad Gazette will be eligible for Kunbi caste certificates. This criterion aims to ensure fairness and accuracy in the process.
Elsewhere in Maharashtra, a different issue has emerged. The Adivasis, traditionally considered tribal, are not considered Hindus according to the MP Congress chief, leading to a potential religious and political divide.
In a separate incident, the body of a Naxal was recovered in Dantewada, highlighting the ongoing struggle against extremism in certain regions of the state.
As the Maratha-OBC controversy continues, the state government and various communities grapple with finding a solution that maintains fairness, respects historical lineages, and promotes harmony.
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