Maratha Quota Talks Prompt Ajit Pawar to Skip Pune Events

Pune: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has postponed his scheduled engagements in Pune to attend a critical meeting in Mumbai focused on the Maratha reservation issue. The decision, announced on Sunday, underscores the urgency of addressing the ongoing agitation led by activist Manoj Jarange, who is currently on an indefinite hunger strike at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan.

Pawar, a prominent leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), was set to participate in several events in his home district of Pune. However, the escalating tensions surrounding the Maratha quota protests prompted him to prioritize the Mumbai discussions. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde are also expected to join the meeting to strategize a response to Jarange’s demands.

The Maratha community’s push for reservation has gained significant momentum, with Jarange’s hunger strike entering its third day on Sunday. The activist has called for all Marathas to be granted Kunbi (OBC) status, a demand that has sparked widespread protests across Maharashtra. On Saturday, a delegation led by Justice (retd) Shinde met Jarange but failed to reach a resolution, as the activist remained firm on his demands.

Pawar’s decision to cancel his Pune engagements reflects the political sensitivity of the issue, particularly with upcoming civic body elections. NCP and Shiv Sena are adopting a cautious approach, avoiding criticism of Jarange to maintain support among Maratha voters. Meanwhile, some BJP leaders have openly opposed the activist’s demands, highlighting a divide within the ruling Mahayuti alliance.

As the Mumbai meeting looms, the state government faces mounting pressure to address the Maratha reservation issue swiftly to prevent further unrest and political fallout. The outcome of these discussions could significantly influence Maharashtra’s political landscape, especially in regions with strong Maratha representation.