Daijiworld Media Network - Nagpur
Nagpur, Sep 6: Tensions are escalating in Maharashtra as OBC organisations across Vidarbha have announced a massive protest march in Nagpur this October, opposing the state government's move to grant Kunbi status to Marathas, thereby potentially including them in the OBC reservation quota.
The announcement was made following a regional meeting of OBC groups from Nagpur, Amravati, Yavatmal, Akola, Chandrapur, and other Vidarbha districts on Saturday. The protest aims to oppose the government's decision to implement the Hyderabad Gazette, which they argue will dilute existing OBC quotas.
Senior Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar alleged that the government had initially used the term "eligible" in the draft resolution while referring to Maratha claims to Kunbi status, but the word was removed in the final version — signalling full inclusion of Marathas into the OBC category.
“This is clear injustice. If Marathas are granted reservation under the OBC quota, the share for existing OBC communities will shrink dangerously,” Wadettiwar said. He announced the formation of a 25-member committee to lead the agitation and legal fight.
Several other leaders, including Abhijit Vanjari, Khushal Bopche, and members of the OBC Yuva Adhikar Manch, echoed similar concerns, warning that the move could reduce the 27% OBC quota, of which 13% is already adjusted, leaving little for original OBC beneficiaries.
Wadettiwar also criticized the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), accusing it of being ideologically opposed to reservations. He alleged that RSS-linked figures in the government are trying to dismantle OBC political reservations.
A follow-up strategy meeting of key OBC leaders is scheduled in Nagpur on September 12, where the roadmap for legal and street-level action will be finalised. The movement will have two fronts — a legal challenge in court and statewide protests, including the Nagpur march.
Former OBC leader and NCP Minister Chhagan Bhujbal also slammed the resolution, claiming it’s a backdoor entry for Marathas into the OBC fold. He questioned the legality of equating Marathas with Kunbis, citing earlier court rulings that rejected such classification.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has urged calm, assuring that no community will lose its rights. “Marathas will get what is theirs, and OBCs will get what is theirs,” he said, denying any attempt to pit communities against each other.
Despite the CM’s assurance, OBC leaders remain unconvinced, warning that unless the resolution is rolled back or amended, the government will face widespread opposition.