Mumbai: Prominent OBC leaders from across party lines came together on Saturday to protest the Maharashtra government resolution (GR) issued on September 2 regarding the Hyderabad Gazette and the subsequent issuance of Kunbi caste certificates to members of the Maratha community.
Senior ministers Chhagan Bhujbal and Pankaja Munde, both part of the ruling Mahayuti coalition, voiced sharp criticism of the state’s handling of the matter. Bhujbal questioned why the Law and Judiciary Department’s opinion had not been sought before the GR was issued, while Munde demanded the publication of a white paper detailing the caste verification process and the granting of Kunbi certificates. Both ministers are members of the group overseeing OBC matters in the state government.
From the opposition, Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar announced that an OBC “Mahamorcha” will proceed in Nagpur on October 10. He stated that the government’s refusal to address OBC demands left no choice but to escalate the agitation. OBC organisations are reportedly united in seeking the cancellation of the GR and the release of a white paper detailing all Kunbi and caste verification certificates issued since 2014. However, Wadettiwar’s stance differs from some Congress leaders in Marathwada and western Maharashtra, who have expressed sympathy for Maratha reservation demands.
Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, head of the OBC ministerial group, assured that complaints regarding fraudulent caste certificates would be examined. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis sought to reassure all communities, stating that justice would be delivered within the framework of law and emphasised that committees are already verifying documents and claims.
Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar reiterated that while addressing Maratha demands, the rights of OBC communities would not be compromised. The escalating tension sets the stage for a high-stakes political clash between two influential communities in Maharashtra.
