NAGPUR: Earlier in the day, activist Manoj Jarange had called off his fast after the state government, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, announced its acceptance of all his demands. Chief Minister Shinde declared that until the Maratha community secures reservation, they will receive benefits equivalent to those enjoyed by Other Backward Classes.
In a press conference held in Nagpur on Saturday, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, addressed concerns surrounding the state government's recent notification related to activist Manoj Jarange's Maratha quota stir. The Deputy CM sought to allay fears among Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and clarified several points regarding the controversial move.
One of the contentious issues was the issuance of Kunbi certificates to blood relatives of the Maratha community, a move criticized by Chhagan Bhujbal, a state minister and member of the NCP. Bhujbal termed it a "backdoor entry" for Marathas into the OBC segment and dismissed it as superficial.
Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis clarified, "OBCs need not be afraid (of the notification). No injustice will be done to them." He further addressed Bhujbal's concerns, stating, "Kunbi certificates will not be given to those who cannot show proof of Kunbi records." Fadnavis emphasized that the decision would primarily benefit individuals with documented Kunbi records who have struggled to obtain caste certificates.
The state government's notification specifies that Kunbi caste certificates will be issued upon submission of an affidavit establishing relations with blood relatives and "patriarchal" relatives who have Kunbi records. These blood relatives include uncles, nephews, and other family members.
Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the home portfolio in the Shinde government, made it clear that FIRs (First Information Reports) against those involved in arson and damaging public property during the quota stir would not be withdrawn, as no such demand had been made.
The developments underscore the ongoing complexities and debates surrounding reservation policies and caste-related issues in Maharashtra.