Gunaratna Sadavarte, through his petition, challenged the Maharashtra State Reservation Act, 2024, which announced reservation for the Maratha community. During the hearing, Sadavarte argued that the implementation of this law would severely limit opportunities for the open category, as reservation in the state would surpass the 50 percent mark. He also alleged that the decision to grant reservation to the Maratha community was politically motivated and influenced by certain factions.
Despite the plea for an immediate stay on the implementation of the Act, the High Court refused to grant it, opting instead to hear all petitions challenging the law together on April 10. This decision indicates a comprehensive approach by the court towards addressing various legal challenges and public interest litigations related to the Maratha reservation.
Furthermore, the High Court has taken cognizance of other PILs filed in this matter and has ordered the state government to clarify its position within four weeks. This move underscores the significance of the issue and the court's commitment to a thorough examination of all aspects involved.
The refusal to grant an immediate stay highlights the complexity of the legal arguments surrounding the Maratha reservation issue. As the hearing on April 10 approaches, stakeholders await further developments and judicial deliberations on this contentious matter.
The Maratha reservation issue has been a subject of intense debate and legal scrutiny, with implications for education, employment, and social equity in Maharashtra. The upcoming hearing on April 10 will likely provide clarity on the future course of action regarding the implementation of the reservation and its legal validity.