Mumbai Maratha Quota Protest: Manoj Jarange-Patil’s Hunger Strike Enters Second Day as Government Panel Holds Talks

Mumbai, August 30, 2025 — The Maratha quota agitation led by social activist Manoj Jarange-Patil has entered its second day in Mumbai, drawing thousands of supporters to Azad Maidan and prompting urgent intervention from the state government. A cabinet sub-committee, headed by senior minister Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil, has been tasked with negotiating the community’s demands in an effort to defuse tensions while ensuring peaceful dialogue.

Demand for Quota Under OBC Category

At the heart of the protest lies Jarange-Patil’s demand that the Maratha community be granted a 10% reservation under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. The 43-year-old activist began his indefinite hunger strike on August 29 at 10 a.m., vowing not to leave the protest site until the government takes concrete action.

While the Maharashtra government initially approved only a one-day protest permit, the Mumbai Police extended permission for an additional day after assessing the crowd’s growing size and the peaceful conduct of demonstrators.

Jarange-Patil further warned that if no resolution is reached soon, he may intensify his strike by refraining from consuming water. His statement has heightened public attention, with many urging the government to expedite negotiations to avoid a prolonged standoff.

Protests Across Central Mumbai

Despite heavy rains, large numbers of Maratha supporters arrived at Azad Maidan on Friday and Saturday, with spillover crowds affecting areas around Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Churchgate, Fort, and Breach Candy.

The presence of protesters has led to significant traffic disruptions, with the Mumbai traffic police issuing advisories urging commuters to avoid congested routes such as the eastern freeway and surrounding hubs. Authorities encouraged the public to use alternate transport options and plan their travel in advance.

Infrastructure and Facilities for Protesters

As thousands gathered in the heart of Mumbai, questions arose over the adequacy of facilities for the protestors. Some participants reported shortages in basic amenities. However, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) maintained that it has arranged 50 portable toilets, ensured sanitation through graveling at protest areas, and provided access to clean water facilities.

Despite these measures, several cultural events and gatherings across south Mumbai were postponed or canceled due to traffic congestion and crowding. Venues such as Kitabkhana and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) temporarily suspended activities to avoid inconvenience to visitors.

Government’s Response: Assurances of Peaceful Dialogue

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar emphasized that every citizen has the democratic right to protest peacefully. He assured the public that the state government is committed to working toward a lawful and sustainable resolution to the Maratha reservation issue.

The cabinet sub-committee, led by Vikhe-Patil, has been engaging with Jarange-Patil’s delegation to explore possible frameworks that can address the community’s concerns while staying within legal and constitutional boundaries.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis took a more cautious tone, questioning the necessity of renewed protests given that the Maratha community has already been extended a 10% quota under a separate category. He described the government’s decision to extend the protest permit as an “act of compromise,” even as he stressed that dialogue remained the only constructive path forward.

Political Implications Ahead of Civic Polls

Political analysts warn that the current agitation could have far-reaching implications on Maharashtra’s political landscape, particularly with upcoming civic elections. Observers suggest that the ongoing protest may influence voting dynamics between Marathas and OBC communities, reshaping traditional political alliances in the state.

The opposition has also weighed in. The Congress party criticized the government, pointing out that promises for quick resolution on quota demands had been made earlier but not fulfilled. Analysts believe that how the ruling coalition manages this issue may directly affect its electoral prospects in both urban and rural constituencies.

Peaceful Protest and Public Sentiment

Despite the scale of the protest, demonstrators have largely maintained discipline and avoided violent incidents. Many families have joined the movement, viewing it as a cultural and social cause rather than a purely political agitation. The non-violent character of the protest has helped gain sympathy from wider sections of society, even as disruptions to city life continue.

Local residents in south Mumbai have expressed both support and concern. While many sympathize with the demand for equitable opportunities, others worry about the long-term impact on traffic, businesses, and public order if the deadlock is not resolved soon.

Looking Ahead: Possible Outcomes

The next few days will be crucial. Jarange-Patil’s indefinite hunger strike adds urgency to the government’s response, with health experts warning of risks if the fast continues without medical supervision.

The cabinet sub-committee is expected to present its initial recommendations within the coming week. While no immediate breakthrough has been announced, both sides have indicated willingness to continue talks.

For now, all eyes remain on Azad Maidan, where a movement that began as a community demand is rapidly becoming a test of Maharashtra’s political leadership and governance.

Summary Table

Final Thoughts

The Maratha quota protest in Mumbai reflects the ongoing struggle between community aspirations and state policy. While Manoj Jarange-Patil’s hunger strike underscores the depth of sentiment among Marathas, the government’s challenge lies in finding a legally viable and socially acceptable solution.

If handled sensitively, the movement could become an example of democratic dialogue, peaceful protest, and inclusive policy-making in India’s largest democracy.