Strong opposition has emerged from Other Backward Class (OBC) organisations against the state government’s recent government resolution (GR) on Maratha reservation, with leaders warning that it would undermine the rights of the OBC community.
Wadettiwar Slams GR as “Unjust and Discriminatory”
Congress Legislature Party leader in the Assembly, Vijay Wadettiwar, said after a joint meeting of OBC organisations in Mumbai that the government’s move was “unjust and discriminatory.” He pointed out that in its first GR, the government had used the term “eligible” for Maratha candidates seeking reservation, but in the second GR, the word was removed, effectively allowing all Marathas to get benefits under the OBC quota.
“Direct Attack on OBC Rights”
“This is a direct attack on the rights of the original OBCs. We will fight this on two fronts — legally in court and through protests on the streets,” Wadettiwar declared.
Protest March in Nagpur Planned
OBC organisations announced that a massive protest march will be held in Nagpur in the first week of October. They also plan to file petitions in the High Court later this week challenging the government’s decision.
Statewide Mobilisation at District Level
In today’s meeting, attended by representatives of OBC organisations from across Maharashtra, it was decided to intensify the agitation at the district level as well. On Saturday, a similar meeting of OBC groups from Vidarbha was held in Nagpur.
Call for Justified Reservation
Wadettiwar, addressing the gathering, said: “Reservation is the right of all communities, but giving blanket reservation to Marathas at the cost of OBCs is not acceptable. Those who have valid records should get benefits, but the government cannot take away OBC rights.”
Allegation of Political Diversion
He also accused the Mahayuti government of deliberately creating conflict between Marathas and OBCs to divert attention from pressing issues. “Farmers are committing suicides, unemployment is rising, contractors are ending their lives, and the state’s economy is collapsing. Instead of addressing these crises, the government is pitting two communities against each other,” Wadettiwar alleged.
Appeal for Unity Among OBCs
He appealed to OBC leaders and activists to put aside party affiliations and join the fight. “This struggle is for protecting the rights of OBCs, not against any community,” he said.
