Maratha Reservation Activist Issues Ultimatum for Final Movement

Manoj Jarange, a key figure in the Maratha reservation movement, has issued a stark warning of a final protest set for August 29 if the Maharashtra government fails to issue caste certificates based on identified Kunbi records. With claims of targeting Maratha youth and a lack of recent certificate issuances, Jarange's call to action urges eligible individuals to apply for their certificates. He emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating that this movement will be decisive for the community's future. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has acknowledged the government's efforts but remains open to discussions regarding any pending issues. The outcome of this impending protest could significantly impact the Maratha community's quest for recognition and rights.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 29, 2026, 20:06 IST

Call for a Decisive Movement

On July 29 in Mumbai, Manoj Jarange, a prominent activist for Maratha reservation, announced a warning for a 'final and decisive' movement starting August 29. He criticized the Maharashtra government for failing to issue caste certificates despite identifying 5.8 million Kunbi records as per the Hyderabad Gazette.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis responded by stating that the number of pending cases is low and expressed the government's willingness to engage in dialogue if there are genuine complaints.

Addressing his supporters, Jarange emphasized that August 29 marks three years since the Maratha reservation movement began, urging for this 'last and decisive movement.' He stated, 'We have identified 5.8 million Kunbi records in the state. We have repeatedly requested the government to issue caste certificates based on these records, but they have not complied.'

Urgent Call to Action

Jarange urged all eligible individuals with confirmed records to apply for caste certificates and appealed to members of the Maratha community to not remain at home on August 29. He warned, 'If certificates are not issued by August 28 as per the Hyderabad Gazette, the movement will commence on August 29. This will be the final and decisive movement.'

He declared, 'Either I will remain, or the government will.' The Hyderabad Gazette is a historical document linked to the Nizam's era and British administration, which activists reference in their demand for the Kunbi caste to be recognized under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.

Jarange also accused the government of targeting Maratha youth, claiming that no certificates have been issued in the last three to four months. His additional demands include withdrawing cases against protesters, fulfilling promises made for the welfare of the Maratha community, reinstating 'Sarthi' schemes, establishing a separate ministry for the Maratha community, and expanding the benefits declared under the socially and educationally backward classes category.

Political Support and Government Response

Jarange called on leaders from all political parties to support the movement, noting that the reservation issue affects workers and families associated with the NCP, Shiv Sena, and Congress. In response to Jarange's announcement, Fadnavis stated that the Mahayuti government has made more decisions for the welfare of the Maratha community than any previous administration.

The Chief Minister informed reporters that caste certificates have been issued to those who applied, and the number of pending cases is minimal. He added, 'If anyone believes that some cases are still pending, we are ready to discuss this issue with them.'

Meanwhile, Fadnavis mentioned that cases against protesters involved in the alleged NEET paper leak protests in Mumbai would be withdrawn, primarily related to violations of prohibitory orders. Sources previously indicated that Fadnavis instructed the Home Department to retract FIRs filed against individuals participating in protests regarding the NEET paper leak across various regions of the state.