Manoj Jarange Patil threatens Maharashtra shutdown over Maratha reservation

Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil has intensified his protest in Maharashtra, issuing warnings to state leadership including Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Despite the state government issuing four new Government Resolutions (GRs) intended to benefit the Maratha community, Jarange Patil has accused the administration of being slow in implementing its promises.

The government's recent measures include providing Maratha students with OBC-equivalent benefits, approving 200 crore rupees for hostel allowances, and facilitating direct fee payments for students studying abroad through the ‘Sarathi’ institution. Additionally, the state has removed scholarship limits for students in the US and UK and announced free driving training for 1,440 Maratha and Kunbi youths.

Jarange Patil has set a deadline of September 12. He warned that if demands are not fully met, he will lead a march to Mumbai and call for a statewide shutdown (Maharashtra Bandh). He further cautioned that any action or attack against protesters would trigger an immediate state-wide strike.