Mumbai is grappling with significant disruptions as Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange-Patil, aged 43, continues his indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan, demanding a 10% reservation for the Maratha community under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. The protest, which began on Friday, August 29, 2025, has drawn thousands of supporters, causing severe traffic congestion around Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). Central Railway issued an advisory urging passengers to avoid the station unless necessary, as reported by PTI.
Jarange-Patil has called for Marathas to be recognized as Kunbis, an agrarian caste eligible for OBC benefits, and insists he will not end the protest until the government issues a resolution acknowledging Marathas in Marathwada as Kunbis. He expressed willingness to accept gazettes from Bombay and Aundh states but rejected those from the Nizam state. Despite his firm stance, Jarange-Patil urged supporters to remain peaceful and cooperate with police to avoid tarnishing the community’s image.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized the government’s commitment to the socio-economic upliftment of Marathas but cautioned against demands that could harm OBC rights. He accused political opponents of exploiting Jarange-Patil’s protest for electoral gain, stating, “Everyone knows who’s firing from Jarange Patil’s shoulder.” Fadnavis highlighted ongoing cabinet discussions to find a constitutionally viable solution, as per PTI.
Opposition leaders have also weighed in. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut held Deputy CM Eknath Shinde responsible for the unrest, while MNS president Raj Thackeray criticized Shinde’s handling of the issue. Uddhav Thackeray, leader of Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray’s faction, accused the Mahayuti government of deceiving the Maratha community and failing to fulfill past promises.
Security measures have been heightened, with Mumbai police increasing protection outside the residence of lawyer Gunratna Sadavarte, who opposes the quota, due to tensions surrounding the protest. As the agitation continues, Mumbai braces for further disruptions.