Jarange and thousands of his supporters braved the overnight rain, battled the mud on the ground and bemoaned the lack of basic amenities, including a paucity of water in the toilets. PIC/ ASHISH RAJE
Speaking to reporters at Azad Maidan, where he launched an indefinite fast on Friday, the 43-year-old activist said that the government should not spread misinformation that the Marathas are seeking reservation from the Other Backward Classes (OBC) quota. PIC/ ASHISH RAJE
"We don't want to indulge in politics. We only want a reservation. The government should not test the patience of the Maratha community," Jarage warned. PIC/ ASHISH RAJE
The activist further urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis not to insult poor Marathas. PIC/ ASHISH RAJE
He accused Fadnavis of trying to create instability and vitiate the atmosphere in the state. PIC/ ASHISH RAJE
On Friday, Fadnavis stated that the state government is optimistic about addressing the social and financial concerns of the Marathas, provided they do not involve political reservation. PIC/ NIMESH DAVE
The chief minister assured that the cabinet sub-committee on issues related to the Maratha community is discussing Jarange's demands and will find a solution within the constitutional framework. PIC/ NIMESH DAVE
The ruling Mahayuti and Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) have criticised each other over the situation in Mumbai, especially when the Ganesh festival was underway. PIC/ NIMESH DAVE
MVA leaders have said the government should talk to Jarange, and the only solution was for the Centre to waive the 50 per cent cap on reservations and conduct a caste census. PIC/ NIMESH DAVE
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