Overview
Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange on Monday called on community members to adopt a "guerrilla strategy" and quietly move towards Mumbai, setting a September 12 deadline for the government to meet their demands. Jarange, who is continuing an indefinite hunger strike at Antarwali Sarati in Maharashtra's Jalna district, warned of a major agitation if the government fails to act.
The appeal came a day after the Maharashtra government indicated willingness to discuss "legally valid" demands of Marathas, even as Jarange remained firm on the principal demand of Kunbi caste certificates for community members.
The Call for a Low-Profile Move
Jarange asked supporters to gradually make their way to Mumbai ahead of the deadline, advising them to stay with friends, relatives, or other hosts rather than gather openly at Azad Maidan. "I appeal to the Maratha community across Maharashtra to gradually move towards Mumbai by the 12th. Stay with guests or friends based on your convenience. If you can head to the city anytime starting today until September 12, do so — just avoid gathering at Azad Maidan for now," he said.
The instruction appeared aimed at avoiding police scrutiny and preventing an early intervention. Addressing concerns about possible detention, Jarange urged supporters to remain calm. "If the police discover where you are staying and take you into custody, go to the police station without any hesitation. You will be provided good accommodation there as well. Do not be afraid," he said.
He also appealed for peace, asking protesters to remain peaceful and avoid arson or violence. Earlier, Jarange had called on supporters to bring 40-45 lakh motorcycles to Mumbai, suggesting the proposed agitation could be conducted in five phases.
Hunger Strike and Demands
Jarange's indefinite hunger strike entered its third day on Monday. He has continued the fast despite medical advice after doctors reported a drop in his blood sugar levels, declining intravenous fluids. In an emotional statement, he said that even if he died during the hunger strike, his body should be taken to Mumbai so that the agitation could continue. He said he would not withdraw his hunger strike.
His principal demand is that Marathas be granted Kunbi certificates based on historical records. Jarange claimed that 58 lakh records establishing genealogical links between Marathas and Kunbis have been found, but alleged the government was seeking to reduce that number. Kunbi certificates would allow Marathas to access OBC reservation benefits in education and government employment.
Jarange also demanded the withdrawal of police cases against quota protesters and compensation for families of those who died in earlier agitations.
Government Response
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the government is open to discussing constitutionally valid and legally viable demands, and not those violative of the Supreme Court's orders. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the Mahayuti government and Jarange are on the same page in supporting farmers.
The activist's call for a quiet entry comes amid heightened security arrangements in South Mumbai. State authorities and the police have stepped up vigilance around key venues and entry points in anticipation of possible disruptions.
Background
Jarange had led a major five-day protest and hunger strike at Azad Maidan in Mumbai from August 29 last year. The agitation caused heavy traffic congestion and brought parts of South Mumbai to a standstill, prompting the Bombay High Court's intervention. The stir was called off on September 2 after the state government accepted six of eight demands and began issuing Kunbi caste certificates.
Jarange said if the government did not accept demands by September 12, a meeting would be held at Antarwali Sarati to announce the date for the Mumbai agitation.