The Maratha reservation movement in Maharashtra has once again gained a momentum as Manoj Jarange Patil has started an indefinite hunger strike today at Azad Maidan in Mumbai, putting the government under renewed pressure.
The Maratha community has been demanding reservation in education and government jobs, either through a separate quota or by being included under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. This demand has led to a larger debate, as OBC groups’ fear that their share of quota could be accommodated to Marathas. The protest march to Azad Maidan has disrupted Mumbai traffic, causing major roads and block for hours, disrupting bus services and enforcing diversions.
The state government has assured the Maratha community that their demand will be addressed without compromising OBCs. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis urged protestors to maintain peace and harmony and to protest within the democratic framework. State Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule emphasized the state government's commitment for a legal and sustainable solution. Deputy CM Eknath Shinde cancelled his planned tour as the Maratha quota stir intensified as a priority to defuse unrest and maintain law and order.

Dharashiv district administration bans public gatherings until September 9 to prevent escalation, while Mumbai police issue traffic advisories and route diversions to handle protestors' large turnout. The Maratha reservation issue in Maharashtra is a sensitive one, with the government balancing justice for the Maratha community and OBC rights. The ongoing hunger strike and increasing public pressure will determine if negotiations can ease tensions or lead to prolonged standoffs.