“We Have Won”: Manoj Jarange Patil Ends Hunger Strike After Maharashtra Government Accepts Key Maratha Demands

Mumbai: Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil ended his indefinite hunger strike on Tuesday at Azad Maidan in Mumbai, bringing an atmosphere of jubilation to the protest site. The announcement followed a meeting between Jarange and a Maharashtra government delegation, during which most of his major demands were accepted.

“We have won,” Jarange told the crowd after discussions with the cabinet sub-committee, led by Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil. Other members of the delegation included ministers Shivendrasinh Bhosale, Uday Samant, and Manikrao Kokate. Jarange later read out the details of the draft proposal to thousands of supporters gathered at the ground, who erupted in celebration, dancing and cheering at the announcement.

The government has agreed to implement the Hyderabad Gazette, ensuring that Marathas with Kunbi records will be issued caste certificates after verification. The activist also confirmed that a Government Resolution (GR) formalizing the decision would be issued immediately, while the Satara Gazette would be implemented within a month.

The positive outcome has invigorated the protesters, many of whom had been camping at Azad Maidan to press for their demands. The celebratory mood was visible across the grounds, with demonstrators expressing relief and joy at the government’s commitment.

Jarange’s hunger strike, which began on 29 August, had drawn significant public attention and mobilized thousands of supporters over five days, marking one of the most impactful agitations for the Maratha quota in Maharashtra.