“Not Even Bullets Can Stop Us” – Manoj Jarange-Patil Begins Indefinite Hunger Strike at Azad Maidan, Thousands Join Maratha Quota Agitation

Mumbai: Mumbai’s iconic Azad Maidan turned into a sea of saffron on Friday as Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange-Patil launched an indefinite hunger strike, vowing not to move until the government delivers on the long-pending demand for reservation.

Jarange, who arrived in the city with thousands of supporters carrying saffron scarves, flags, and caps, declared war-like determination. “I have come here as planned, and the fast has begun. If needed, I will not rise from here until our demands are implemented. Not even bullets will make me step back. Unless we have victory, and gulal falls on our heads in celebration, we will not move from Azad Maidan,” he thundered, drawing roaring applause from the crowd.

While his speech electrified the gathering, Jarange repeatedly urged discipline and non-violence. “No violence, no vandalism, no stone-pelting. Cooperate with the police. No one should drink, no one should create a nuisance. Do not do anything that will make our society bow its head in shame,” he appealed, stressing that the movement must remain peaceful despite its intensity.

In a rare move, the activist asked a section of protestors to relocate from Mumbai to Navi Mumbai’s Vashi, citing monsoon hardships and the need to avoid inconvenience to Mumbaikars. “The rains have begun, and we don’t want protestors to face hardship in the city. Some of you can continue the agitation at Vashi, while the rest stay here. Mumbai must not be inconvenienced,” Jarange directed.

Reiterating his resolve, Jarange warned the government against further delay. “We will not leave until the implementation of our demands. The government did not cooperate earlier, which is why we had to come to Mumbai. Now that permission has been granted, we will also extend cooperation, but only if our rights are secured,” he declared.

The activist’s five core demands include:

Recognition of Marathas and Kunbis as one community.

Implementation of Hyderabad and Satara/Bombay Gazetteers.

Inclusion of extended relatives wherever Kunbi lineage is established.

Withdrawal of all cases against Maratha protestors.

Reservation for Marathas within the constitutional framework.