Manoj Jarange Targets Chhagan Bhujbal Over Girls’ Education and Reservation: Accuses Some Leaders of Practicing Casteism
Speaking at a public address, Jarange Patil emphasized that the Maratha movement has worked not only for the benefit of the Maratha community but also for girls from all castes. “We demanded that girls of every caste receive free education. Our struggle helped secure that. But still, some people are practicing casteism,” he said, in a veiled reference to Bhujbal.
Jarange added, “We have been fighting for 70 years—not just for ourselves but for all castes. Today, due to our efforts, girls from every community are getting educational opportunities. They too should acknowledge this.”
On Dhangar and Tribal Reservation
Addressing the issue of Dhangar community reservation, Jarange clarified that there is no demand to take away reservation from tribal communities. Instead, he said, the demand is based on the evidence provided by the Dhangar community itself.
“We are not asking to snatch reservation from tribals and give it to the Dhangar community. The Dhangars have shown that they are tribals. Their children still live in forests, fields, mountains, and valleys. They too deserve their rightful place in the reservation system,” he said.
He again criticized Bhujbal without naming him directly, stating that only some OBC leaders are opposing this demand. “Why are they speaking against this? Is it only to keep their own hold on the reservation pie?” Jarange asked.
Warning of Maratha Agitation in Mumbai
Jarange also issued a stern warning regarding the Maratha reservation movement. He said that if the government fails to meet the community's demands by August 29, there would be a massive protest in Mumbai.
“We haven’t held public meetings yet, but if demands are not met, thousands from the Maratha community will come to Mumbai. Some will come to support us, others will prepare for 22 days and then join. Employees, farmers, businessmen—everyone is ready to send us off with tractors, trucks, and motorcycles. People have understood the seriousness of fighting for their children's future,” he said.
Comment on Pahalgam Terror Attack
Speaking on national security, Jarange Patil also reacted to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, expressing frustration over the lack of strong response.
“The terrorists should have been eliminated by now. All they are doing is hijacking planes. They don’t have any real base left. We’ve cut off their water supply—they are just wasting diesel. The whole country is standing behind the government, but no decisive action has been taken,” he commented.
Jarange’s remarks have sparked renewed political debate in the state, especially around the sensitive issues of caste, reservation, and regional agitation.