X: @the_news_21
In a significant development, Shivba Sanghatana leader Manoj Jarange-Patil has commenced his much-anticipated ‘March to Mumbai’ from his native village, Antarvali-Sarati. Accompanied by thousands of fervent supporters, the leader is determined to intensify the ongoing agitation for Maratha reservation, vowing to press on until their demands are met.
With a resolute spirit, Jarange-Patil, surrounded by saffron flags and echoing chants of ‘Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji,’ embarked on the journey toward Mumbai. His march aims to culminate on Republic Day (January 26) in Mumbai, where he hopes to address the longstanding issue of Maratha reservations.
“This is a fight for justice for the Marathas. They must get what they are entitled to… We will not back off from the march to Mumbai. No bullets can deter me now. I am ready to give up my life for the Marathas,” declared Jarange-Patil with a steadfast commitment.
Anticipating a massive turnout, organizers predict that over the next few days, around three crore (30 million) Marathas from across the state will virtually lay siege to Mumbai, causing concern among various authorities.
Despite appeals from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to postpone the march, Jarange-Patil remains steadfast in his determination. He has expressed readiness to face bullets if the government attempts to thwart the Maratha marchers.
Political figures have weighed in on the situation, with Nationalist Congress Party President Sharad Pawar questioning the absence of ministers who promised Maratha quotas and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut urging the government to address the issue seriously.
While Minister Shambhuraj Desai claims that the ‘quotas issue is about 70-85 percent solved,’ concerns persist over the impact the march will have on Mumbai. Minister Hasan Mushrif has challenged Jarange-Patil to name those attempting to break the Maratha agitation, promising swift action against them.
Jarange-Patil has submitted a list of demands, including quotas in education and government jobs for Marathas, immediate issuance of certificates for the ‘Kunbi Caste’ (OBC), and the withdrawal of police cases against his supporters.
“I have given enough deadlines and extensions to the government, but the issue has still not been resolved even after seven months. Now we will not budge; the Marathas will come out in massive strength. They will not tolerate any injustice now,” declared Jarange-Patil, signaling a potentially prolonged and intense standoff in the days to come.
