Social IssuesGS-I· 1 min read
Maratha Reservation Agitation
Why in news?
Maratha activist Manoj Jarange Patil announced that protesters will head to Mumbai, with the date to be announced after supporters gather. The agitation demands reservation for the Maratha community based on Kunbi entries.
Key points
- Manoj Jarange Patil's indefinite hunger strike demanding reservation has entered its 13th day.
- Protesters are demanding the issuance and validation of certificates based on Kunbi entries in historical gazette records for eligible Marathas.
- The government is facilitating the process of issuing Kunbi certificates under the OBC category, but protesters are wary of the government's intentions.
- The agitation has led to strained relations with the ruling Mahayuti coalition in Maharashtra.
Background & context
The Maratha community in Maharashtra has been seeking reservation benefits. The current demand focuses on recognizing Marathas with Kunbi (an agrarian OBC community) lineage as eligible for reservation.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The protest is being staged across Maharashtra, with a central gathering point at Antarwali Sarathi in Jalna district.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I (Social Issues): Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population; Salient features of the Indian Social Structure.