Mumbai : Maharashtra Minister and senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the state government, accusing it of “pampering” Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange-Patil.
Bhujbal cautioned that any move to grant reservation benefits to the Maratha community under the OBC category would trigger massive protests by Other Backward Classes across Maharashtra.
Addressing a meeting of OBC leaders in Mumbai, Bhujbal said, “The Maratha community already enjoys reservation. Does Jarange want 100% quota, leaving others in the lurch? This would be unconstitutional.”
The veteran leader, who has previously spearheaded Elgar rallies under the banner of the All India Mahatma Phule Samata Parishad, criticised the government for repeatedly sending emissaries and ministers to pacify Jarange instead of firmly rejecting his demand.
He also slammed the ongoing Maratha protests in Mumbai, alleging they have caused traffic chaos, security lockdowns near Mantralaya, and inconvenience to citizens. “Jarange’s stir could have been held outside the city, but the government allowed him to cripple normal life in the financial capital,” Bhujbal said.
