On Sunday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde made an appeal to quota activist Manoj Jarange, urging him not to proceed to Mumbai. Shinde emphasized that the state commission for backward classes is actively addressing the matter.

Jarange, who initiated his journey from Antarwali Sarati village in Jalna district on Saturday, announced his intent to lead a Mumbai march with a significant number of supporters, initiating an indefinite fast until their demands are met.

Jarange’s primary demand is the issuance of Kunbi certificates for Marathas, enabling them to access reservations in government jobs and education within the Other Backward Class (OBC) category.

CM Shinde, addressing reporters, stated, “The state government has instructed the Maharashtra State Commission for Backward Classes to expedite its work and submit a report to the state government.” Additionally, Shinde disclosed the government’s plan to hold a special assembly session in February to deliberate on Maratha reservations.

Assuring that no other community’s reservation would be impacted, Shinde stressed the government’s commitment to safeguard Maratha interests. He expressed optimism that protestors would respond positively to the government’s efforts in addressing their concerns.

Earlier, on Saturday, Shinde had announced that the state commission for backward classes would conduct a survey from January 23 to assess the social, economic, and educational backwardness of the Maratha community. The survey, to be carried out in three shifts on a war footing, is scheduled from January 23 to January 31.

Also read: Manoj Jarange to fast indefinitely for Maratha quota on January 26