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In a significant development, Manoj Jarange-Patil, the prominent leader spearheading the protest for Maratha reservation, concluded his 17-day-long hunger strike by accepting a glass of orange juice from the hands of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday morning. The momentous occasion marked the end of his determined fast, which he initiated to demand reservation for the Maratha community.
The conclusion of this fast came as CM Shinde made his way to Antarwali Sarate, the village where Manoj Jarange-Patil had been conducting his fast unto death agitation in support of Maratha Reservation.
Addressing the crowd after breaking his fast, Jarange-Patil stated, “We have decided to give the government one month. However, I won’t leave this place (the site of agitation) for the next 30 days.” He expressed his readiness to continue the protest if necessary, emphasizing the importance of securing a reservation that would withstand legal challenges in the court.
During the brief meeting that followed, Manoj Jarange-Patil and CM Shinde engaged in a constructive discussion lasting approximately 10 minutes. The culmination of their conversation saw Jarange-Patil accepting a glass of orange juice, symbolizing the end of his hunger strike.
Speaking at the event, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde commended Jarange-Patil’s unwavering commitment to the Maratha community’s cause. “I have known Manoj for many years. He has always been a champion for the community. In all our interactions, he never raised personal demands. His dedication is to the community, and that is why he has earned the people’s support. I thank him for concluding his fast and congratulate him on raising such a vital agitation,” CM Shinde said.
Furthermore, CM Shinde reiterated the government’s commitment to providing reservation to the Maratha community. He underscored the government’s actions, such as the appointment of 3,700 youth from the Maratha community, as evidence of their unwavering dedication. “We are committed to providing reservation to the Maratha community, and we won’t rest until we achieve that goal,” CM Shinde affirmed.
The development marks a significant milestone in the ongoing struggle for Maratha reservation, with both Manoj Jarange-Patil and the Maharashtra government reaffirming their dedication to the cause.
