Amidst the ongoing protest by Manoj Jarange Patil and other Maratha demonstrators in Mumbai, demanding OBC quota reservation, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has defended his government’s position on Maratha reservation while criticizing Uddhav Thackeray. Thackeray had expressed support for the protesters’ demands, prompting a sharp retort from Shinde, who questioned why Thackeray did not protect the Maratha community’s existing reservation when he was Chief Minister.
Shinde mentioned the 10% reservation provided by his government, which continues to benefit the Maratha community. He also highlighted the initiatives undertaken through ‘Sarathi,’ offering financial assistance, and hostel facilities. These provisions have helped the Maratha community in succeeding in UPSC and MPSC examinations. He further stated that the previous government led by Devendra Fadnavis had also granted reservation, but the subsequent Maha Vikas Aghadi government failed to uphold it.
Shinde also emphasized the government’s efforts to secure the existing reservation for the economically backward Maratha community. He challenged Thackeray on the inconsistency of his approach, asking why meetings were not convened during his tenure and criticizing the opposition’s current stance. Shinde suggested that the criticism lacks merit, citing the lack of action by Thackeray when he was in power.
Uddhav Thackeray earlier commented on the situation and mentioned that justice had to be sought in Mumbai. He referenced previous statements by Fadnavis and questioned why the Marathas were not given reservation.