Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange has extended his hunger strike to its seventh day, demanding that the Maharashtra government issue Kunbi certificates to eligible Marathas so they can access OBC reservation benefits. A government delegation has urged him to end the fast, but Jarange insists on a formal resolution by September 12.

  • Jarange continues a 7‑day hunger strike.
  • Demand for Kunbi certificates to grant Marathas OBC benefits.
  • Government has until September 12 to issue a resolution.

In Jalna’s Antarwali Sarati village, Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange has vowed to keep his fast going until the Maharashtra government addresses his demands. The core of the protest is the issuance of Kunbi certificates, which would allow Marathas with documented links to the Kunbi community to qualify for OBC reservation benefits.

The government’s recent audit has traced around 58 lakh Kunbi records, yet the process of converting these into valid certificates remains unclear. Jarange calls for a transparent verification procedure and a formal Government Resolution by September 12.

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During a meeting with a government delegation—including ministers Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil and Uday Samant, MLC Prasad Lad, and MLA Makarand Patil—the delegation urged Jarange to end the fast, citing his deteriorating health. However, the activist questioned whether the newly formed Maratha Cell and its nodal officer would provide a lasting solution.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this dispute could reshape Maharashtra’s political landscape. A failure to grant the certificates may drive the Maratha community to distance itself from the ruling Mahayuti alliance, altering the balance of power in the state.

"Issuing Kunbi certificates is not just about reservations; it’s about acknowledging social identity and inclusion," says sociologist Dr. Sumit Patel.

Jarange also targeted senior OBC leader and Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal for opposing Maratha inclusion in the OBC quota. Meanwhile, Maratha Kranti Morcha leader Sanjay Lakhepatil criticized both Vikhe Patil and Jarange, arguing that simplifying the certificate process alone is insufficient and calling for changes grounded in the 1921 and 1931 Hyderabad State gazettes.

Did You Know? The reservation policy in India aims to promote social and economic equality for historically disadvantaged groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How will Marathas benefit from Kunbi certificates?

Kunbi certificates authenticate a Maratha’s linkage to the Kunbi community, thereby qualifying them for OBC reservation benefits.

2. Why is September 12 a critical deadline?

The deadline represents a political deadline set by Jarange to compel the government to act and is a barometer of the movement’s momentum.