Jalna, Oct 23: In a stern warning, Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange-Patil declared that if the Maharashtra government does not announce reservation for the Maratha community by October 24, he will recommence his hunger strike the following day. Speaking at a press conference in Antarwali Sarati village, Jalna district, Jarange-Patil disclosed that in addition to his hunger strike, a chain hunger strike will initiate across various villages.
Emphasizing that the state government was given a 40-day deadline, set to conclude on October 24, Jarange-Patil asserted that political leaders would be barred from entering his village unless they bring about reservation for the Maratha community. The next course of action will be decided on October 25 in Antarwali Sarati village.
During his indefinite hunger strike, Jarange-Patil affirmed his refusal to accept water, medicine, and treatment. He expressed frustration, stating, “We have given sufficient time to the state government, but now will not give any more time to them. If an indefinite fast starts, the government will be responsible for it.”
Jarange-Patil also urged the Maratha community’s youth to avoid impulsive decisions like suicide and advocated for a peaceful agitation. He clarified, “I will not support violent agitation.” Notably, Jarange-Patil had concluded a 17-day hunger strike on August 29 after receiving assurance from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who requested one month’s time. However, Jarange-Patil extended the deadline by ten days, now set to expire on October 24. Following the withdrawal of his fast, he embarked on a statewide tour to raise awareness about the reservation issue within the Maratha community.”
