Maratha Quota Activist Manoj Jarange’s Health Deteriorates on 5th Day of Hunger Strike
Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange finds himself in a precarious state as his indefinite hunger strike enters its fifth day, all in a fervent plea for the Maratha community’s inclusion in the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. Commencing on January 25, 2025, this marks Jarange’s seventh protest of this nature in just over a year, underscoring the gravity of his mission.
Although his determination is unwavering, reports indicate that Manoj Jarange Patil’s health is deteriorating, raising concerns among health officials and local leaders. Despite their urgent pleas, Jarange steadfastly refuses intravenous fluids, a stance that has sparked both admiration and apprehension among his supporters and detractors alike.
On the morning of January 29, BJP MLA Suresh Dhas paid a visit to the protest site in Antarwali Sarati, situated in Maharashtra’s Jalna district, in an effort to persuade Jarange to reconsider his stance on medical intervention. Accompanied by District Civil Surgeon Dr. R S Patil and a medical team, Dhas implored Jarange to prioritize his well-being, yet the activist remained resolute in his hunger strike.
Even in the face of mounting pressure, including appeals from Santosh Deshmukh’s family, Jarange has only consented to drinking water, adamantly refusing intravenous fluids despite repeated entreaties from health officials. His unwavering commitment to this cause has garnered widespread attention, particularly as it coincides with the aftermath of Santosh Deshmukh’s tragic murder on December 9, 2024.
Calling for justice in Deshmukh’s case, Jarange has intensified his protest, demanding capital punishment for those responsible for the heinous crime. With Maharashtra Police having arrested seven individuals thus far, the urgency of Jarange’s hunger strike has only escalated, amplifying the voices of those seeking accountability and change.
Jarange’s plea extends beyond the tragic events surrounding Deshmukh’s murder, encompassing broader calls for recognition of the Maratha community’s rightful place under the OBC category. While previous legislative measures have provided a partial 10% reservation for Marathas in education and government sectors, Jarange contends that this falls short of their due rights, fueling his unwavering pursuit of OBC classification.
In a poignant display of hope and perseverance, Jarange expressed optimism on Saturday that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis would heed the Maratha community’s demands, particularly their push for OBC inclusion. This unwavering resolve underscores the depth of Jarange’s commitment to his cause, further galvanizing support for his ongoing hunger strike.
As Jarange’s health hangs in the balance, the implications of his protest extend far beyond his personal sacrifice, resonating with the broader struggle for justice, equity, and recognition. In the face of adversity, his unwavering determination serves as a poignant reminder of the power of individual conviction and collective action in the pursuit of social change.
